Bill English MP
National Party Deputy Leader

9 July 2007

Health scandal: Hodgson and Clark clairvoyants

Helen Clark and Pete Hodgson are showing remarkable powers of clairvoyance by deciding the outcome of an inquiry into alleged conflicts of interest and a sacked whistleblower at Hawke’s Bay Health before the investigators are even appointed.

“These are serious allegations that need an Auditor-General’s external overview. Glib assurances from Helen Clark, given her track record with inquiries, simply don’t wash any more.”

Mr English says both Ms Clark and Mr Hodgson have made public statements that nothing will be found.

“Little wonder they’re setting up an internal sham.”

The issues raised now include:

- A ministerial appointee on the board discussing a $50m contract that his company was tendering for with management.

- The sacking of the whistlelblower who uncovered the scandal.

- The Hawke’s Bay District Health Board abandoning the tender process because it was so badly tainted it could be overturned in court.

Labour plans to appoint a district health board chair to investigate.

Mr English says the public can’t have any confidence in that approach.

“Because DHB chairs are appointed by the Government and their job depends on keeping their bosses happy.

“How many more of these scandals does Labour need to oversee before they realise there is a systemic problem in the way they run and monitor the health system?”

ENDS

“As I say it's been through full, ah, board processes before and no conflict of interest was found.” – Helen Clark.

“I must say I don't expect to find anything,” Mr Hodgson said. “None of the allegations is new... I just think this is a matter which needs to be laid to rest.”

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