21 Jul 2020

National MP resigns after sending indecent pictures to teen

From Morning Report, 6:38 am on 21 July 2020

National leader Judith Collins faces some big questions today following revelations outgoing MP Andrew Falloon sent an indecent picture to a young woman.

The Rangitata MP announced yesterday afternoon he would not stand in September's election.

Shortly after Collins put out a statement saying she was made aware on Friday afternoon of an issue relating to Falloon.

She went on to say Falloon was suffering from significant mental health problems and his privacy must be respected.

Falloon said the recent suicide of one of his friends has brought back much unresolved grief, that he had made a number of mistakes and apologised those who've been affected.

It was then revealed the Prime Minister's office was alerted first about the incident.

Jacinda Ardern told reporters her office was sent correspondence - reported to be from the woman's parents - last week.