A man being sued for defamation by former Conservative Party leader Colin Craig says he welcomes the opportunity to have matters discussed publicly.
Colin Craig. Photo: SUPPLIED
John Stringer, who resigned as chairman of the party in July after publicly criticising Mr Craig, says the suit that arrived yesterday had been long threatened and he had begun to fear it would never arrive.
He said Mr Craig, who stood down earlier after admitting inappropriate conduct with his press secretary, had so far avoided all opportunities to front up to his colleagues.
Mr Stringer said the court case would be a chance to check the record straight and ask probing questions of Mr Craig.
New Zealanders want to know whether the allegations against him are true, and it is important to let the court determine who is telling the truth, Mr Craig said.
He also filed proceedings against blogger Cameron Slater and said he expected to lodge a claim against lobbyist Jordan Williams within the next two weeks.
Mr Craig said he would not rule out a future role in politics, and wanted to clear his name.
