Shane Jones is hitting back at fresh criticisms of a conflict of interest saying he can meet with whoever he likes at Parliament's restaurant, Bellamy's, and he's not going to stop doing that.
When NZ Future Forest Products applied for Provincial Growth funding - which Jones oversees as the Regional Economic Development Minister - the company was asked whether the project had been "previously discussed" with the government.
Brian Henry - a close friend and the lawyer to New Zealand First leader Winston Peters - and his son David Henry are involved in the company.
It was David Henry who in April last year ticked the yes box saying a presentation had been made to Jones during a 15-minute meeting in Wellington.
Jones told political reporter Jo Moir he's met with David Henry on at least two occasions, possibly over dinner, but denies any prior knowledge of the application.
