Personal Explanations — Ship Grounding, Rena—Salvage Contracts

I seek leave of the House under Standing Order 354 to make a personal explanation in respect of allegations that were made against me by the Hon Winston Peters during question time today.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: Leave is sought by the honourable member to make a personal explanation. Is there any objection? There is no objection.

Today in question time Mr Peters alleged in the House that I had given big contracts to brothers involved in the construction business during my role as the Minister with responsibility—

💬 Rt Hon Winston Peters: I never said that.

—for the Rena recovery. I have checked the Hansard, Mr Peters.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: Order! Personal explanations should not be interrupted.

I have had absolutely no involvement in any of the contracts involving heavy cranage in the Rena recovery operation. It is my understanding that all contracts that have been entered into have been with the salvage company directly, and did not involve either Ministers or officials.

It is not surprising, given that I have three brothers with substantial businesses involving heavy cranage and a substantial portion of the New Zealand crane fleet, that sometimes they will be involved in high-profile projects such as the Rena recovery. I also wish to put on record that I have absolutely no involvement in those businesses nor any financial interest in those businesses. I have made plain in detail to the Cabinet Office and to the Prime Minister those businesses, and have ensured in all of my ministerial roles that I do not create any conflict of interest or perceived conflict of interest.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: I thank the Minister.