Statement From The Press Gallery
26/4/2010

After inquiries by the Press Gallery Executive, the Treasurer, Ian Llewellyn, has stepped down and informed the Executive that he has been wrongly using its funds for personal use.

Mr Llewellyn said he used the money because he was in financial difficulty, and that he has made some repayments but has acknowledged his behaviour was unacceptable.

In a joint statement the Press Gallery Chairwoman, Jane Patterson, and Deputy, Vernon Small, said they were extremely disappointed at the breach of trust by a longstanding office holder and colleague.

At this stage they are working through the accounts but it is not possible yet to determine exactly how much was misused, and how much has been repaid.

The Press Gallery intends to ask an independent auditor to examine the accounts covering the period in question.

Given the watchdog role the Press Gallery plays, it intends to handle this matter as openly as possible, and is intending to seek advice from the police.

Ian Llewellyn has acknowledged his wrongdoing in writing to the Press Gallery and has promised to reimburse any money outstanding.

The Press Gallery voted today to recommend to the Speaker of the House that Mr Llewellyn's accreditation be suspended pending the outcome of the audit.

ENDS

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