10 Sep 2014

Peters happy with lower level of inquiry

4:15 pm on 10 September 2014

Prime Minister John Key says he has had no discussions with Winston Peters about holding a broad inquiry into the allegations contained in the Dirty Politics book.

100914. Photo Diego Opatowski / RNZ. NZ First Winston Peters at RNZ Morning Report studio.

NZ First leader Winston Peters in Radio New Zealand's studios. Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski

Nicky Hager's book, released last month, is based on thousands of emails and Facebook messages revealing right-wing blogger Cameron Slater's conversations with National Party members including former Justice Minister Judith Collins.

The New Zealand First leader says he would be happy with any inquiry that held the people implicated in the book to account after initially pushing for a Royal Commission of Inquiry.

Mr Key has established an investigation into allegations relating to Ms Judith Collins and the Serious Fraud Office.

Mr Peters has previously said that a bottom line in any post-election negotiations would be a full Royal Commission of Inquiry, which is also backed by Labour and the Greens.

In an interview with Radio New Zealand's Nine to Noon programme this morning, Winston Peters said he still wants a broader inquiry, which Mr Key has agreed to.

John Key said today that he has had no discussions with Mr Peters about that, and is happy with the parameters of the Collins investigation.

However, he said he has not completely ruled out a broader inquiry, having said previously he will have those talks if and when necessary.

  • Our full election coverage
  • Leader Video Profiles
  • Get the RNZ app

    for ad-free news and current affairs