Minister Condones Clapped Out Cars

New Zealand First law and order spokesperson Ron Mark says that the case of the Wellington police officer acquitted of charges for careless driving due to a defective patrol car raises serious questions about police resources.

“Firstly, the Minister, George Hawkins, is fully aware of his responsibility as an employer to ensure that police officers are not driving unsafe patrol vehicles. Is the Minister going to hold himself accountable for this failure?” asked Mr Mark.

“Secondly, it has been reported that cheap, commercial models of cars which are unsuitable for high speed pursuits are being used as patrol cars. How can Mr Hawkins justify such a purchasing policy?

“Finally, it would appear that whilst frontline police officers like the constable charged have to be content with driving ‘dunger’ vehicles, some senior ‘desk jockey’ officers are driving top of the range models. Where exactly do the Minister’s priorities lie?

“Our frontline police officers deserve the best. Quite clearly they are not getting it from this Government.

“Mr Hawkins needs to show some loyalty to the police officers who place themselves on the line every day,” said Mr Mark.

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