M.P.’s views 'disappoint’

Press, 30 January 1982, Page 4

M.P.’s views 'disappoint’

Wellington reporter Statements by the Labour member of Parliament for Papanui, Mr M. K. Moore, condoned the misuse of official information by public servants, said the chairman of the State Services Commission, Dr M. C. Probine, yesterday. Mr Moore was asked by Dr Probine to help the commission discover who had “leaked” him confidential information on Government plans to raise interest on Post Office home ownership account loans. Mr Moore said on Thursday that because of his reaction. and on reflection. Dr Probine had decided not to invoke section 15 of the State Services Act (1962) which might require Mr Moore to answer on oath. Mr Moore said the use of leaks was a “time-honoured and perfectly legitimate political function.”’ Dr Probihe said he was

disappointed with Mr Moore’s comments. He did not decide to drop use of section 15 because of Mr Moore’s reaction, but had decided some time before he met Mr Moore that the use of such powers would be inappropriate on this occasion.

He was more concerned about the effect of Mr Moore’s attitude toward the improper release of information than he was about Mr Moore’s unwillingness to cooperate with the commission. “The statement suggests that the ends justify the means,- and it condones the misuse of official information by public servants," he said.

“In New Zealand we are fortunate in having a public service that is dedicated, loyal, and free from political interference; In my view Mr Moore’s approach undermines these basic prin- _____