27 Feb 2020

Government warned over political funding transparency

From Morning Report, 8:55 am on 27 February 2020

Transparency International's New Zealand chair is warning the need to reform political funding structures is more urgent than ever - and that complacency is leaving the country more vulnerable to corruption.

The Serious Fraud Office's scrutiny of donations to National and New Zealand First has sparked debate about whether there needs to be a deeper investigation into party funding and electoral laws.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says she'll review the issue if re-elected - but she's rejecting suggestions the recent scandals show big money is influencing New Zealand politics.

Political reporter Yvette McCullough has more.