INDEPENDENT NEWS

Smith bitterly disappointed by contempt ruling

Published: Wed 24 Mar 2004 04:29 PM
Hon Dr Nick Smith Nelson MP
24 March 2004
Smith bitterly disappointed by contempt ruling
National MP Nick Smith is bitterly disappointed at the High Court decision that he was in contempt of court for highlighting the plight of a Nelson family denied custody of their own child.
"It is extraordinary that in a free and democratic country I have been convicted for saying a boy should be with his mum and dad. "I have no regrets about the actions I took in support of this Nelson family last year. This conviction pales into insignificance compared to the loss of their son.
"My regret is that the system has responded by shooting the messenger rather than taking the message that the Family Court needs reform. "I am very grateful for the support I have had from my Parliamentary colleagues and the public of Nelson.
"I also wish to thank people like Auckland Mayor John Banks, Nelson Mayor Peter Malone and the hundreds of others who have so generously supported me.
"I am considering appealing this judgment. I will make a decision after consulting my lawyers and my supporters in Nelson. I will make a decision about my political future after the weekend," says Dr Smith.
Ends

Next in New Zealand politics

Concerns Conveyed To China Over Cyber Activity
By: New Zealand Government
GDP Decline Reinforces Government’s Fiscal Plan
By: New Zealand Government
New Zealand Provides Further Humanitarian Support To Gaza And The West Bank
By: New Zealand Government
High Court Judge Appointed
By: New Zealand Government
Parliamentary Network Breached By The PRC
By: New Zealand Government
Tax Cuts Now Even More Irresponsible
By: New Zealand Labour Party
View as: DESKTOP | MOBILE © Scoop Media