2 Jun 2010

Bill makes it easier for police to seek public office

8:22 pm on 2 June 2010

Legislation to allow members of the police to stand for election and serve on local authorities has been introduced to Parliament.

Police Minister Judith Collins says the amending legislation overturns restrictions within the 2008 Policing Act.

Under the act, members of the police standing for election must go on special leave during the campaign period, and are required to resign if they are elected.

Ms Collins says that that's undemocratic. The bill will ensure that police employees are not treated differently to other state servants who want to serve on local authorities, she says.

She also says police internal policies would be updated to ensure any actual or perceived conflict of interest was managed appropriately.