11 Nov 2020

Sir Stephen Tindall criticises America's Cup investigation

From Morning Report, 7:53 am on 11 November 2020

The America's Cup defenders have lashed out at a government investigation into their use of millions of dollars of taxpayers funds for the event.

Team New Zealand wants the Ombudsman and the Public Service Commission, formerly the State Services Commission, to review the official probe into claims of financial mishandling.

It's been almost three months since the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment found no evidence of wrongdoing or fraud.

The ministry and the Serious Fraud Office have now confirmed the two agencies had discussions about the America's Cup finances and that revelation has angered the defenders.

The chairman Sir Stephen Tindall told reporter Amy Williams there hasn't been any communication with the SFO, they want to set the record straight and also want an investigation into how the ministry conducted itself.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has issued a statement saying it has treated Team New Zealand and event organisers with respect.

It says it wants to ensure the hosting of the 36th America's Cup is successful.