3 February 2005 Media Statement
Minister happy with thorough inquiry
The Minister of Police, George Hawkins, completely rejects the assertion made in Time magazine that NZ has a weak
anti-child pornography regime.
"Our policing of this pernicious and immoral trade is second to none – and we certainly aren't a haven for paedophiles,"
said Mr Hawkins.
"I am happy that the joint Police, Customs and Department of Internal Affairs investigation into information received
from the US Customs Department is proceeding appropriately.
"I have been advised by officials that investigations into international traffic of child pornography images are very
complex and need to be handled with great care. As a result they often take a long time.
"The joint team is making sure all elements of the investigation are being carefully managed so that the Courts will be
presented with fully documented cases to give a high chance of successful prosecutions. The operation is being overseen
by Deputy Commissioner Steve Long.
"This operation is one of many investigations under current laws which are undertaken by the Police, Customs and
Department of Internal Affairs every year into trading and possession of child pornography.
"New Zealand authorities have had many successes since 1996 when the special unit was established at the Department of
Internal Affairs. Since then nearly 150 offenders have been convicted and in the last 2 years 15 offenders have received
gaol sentences to recognise the seriousness of their offending.
"The Films, Videos, Publications and Classification Amendment Bill intends to increase the search powers available to
the authorities and to increase 10-fold the severity of some penalties. It is scheduled for its second reading next
week.
ENDS