31 Aug 2018
Customs Minister steps aside after claims of shoving
RNZ has learned the inquiry which forced Meka Whaitiri to step aside as Customs Minister centres on an allegation she manhandled her new press secretary. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern issued a statement on Thursday, saying Ms Whaitiri was standing aside while Ministerial Services investigated a staffing matter. Neither Ms Ardern or Ms Whaitiri are giving interviews on the topic while the investigation is underway. RNZ political editor Jane Patterson joins Guyon Espiner with her analysis.