A book launched today using a package of documents from Timberlands’ West Coast’s public relations company may prove
damaging to the government, especially the Prime Minister.
Nicky Hager today launched his book Secrets and Lies which details the relationship between the PR company Shandwicks,
the State Owned Enterprise Timberlands and various members of the government.
The documents which were leaked to Hager show that the pro-Timberlands group Coast Action Network was dreamt up by
Shandwicks and they also show the lengths to which the company has gone to stifle debate on native logging and to lobby
Ministers and opposition MPs.
Hager says it is concerning that a public company has used public money to shut down a debate of public interest. The
book calls into question comments by Jenny Shipley that neither she or her staff were involved in the Timberlands
operations.
Dave Hilliard, chief executive of Timberlands said all his company did was provide politicians with correct information.
He also described Nicky Hager as paranoid.
A spokesperson for Shandwicks says all the company did was attempt to correct “misinformation” by environmental groups
about sustainable logging.
Jenny Shipley has refused to be interviewed on the book this morning.
Scoop will review the book shortly and more information is coming.