Phil
GOFF
Foreign Affairs Spokesperson
24 May 2013
Media Statements
Answers needed on High Commissioner’s residence
New Zealand taxpayers should be told why they are having to fork out $7500 a week to pay for alternative premises for
the High Commissioner in London while the official residence remains empty, Labour’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Phil
Goff, says.
“Foreign Affairs has just been savagely restructured, with staff being made redundant and allowances slashed to save
money.
“There will need to be very good reasons why $390,000 a year is being spent on alternative High Commission
accommodation. That sum would cover the annual salaries of more than five Ministry staff.
“If there is a justifiable reason why this money is being spent, then Foreign Affairs Minister, Murray McCully, should
tell us.
“The Clareville Street property is only around a decade old. It would be most unusual if it needed major refurbishment
at this point.
“If it is able to be occupied, it should be – at least until any decision is made about its replacement or
refurbishment.
“I’m sure the Ministry has better use for the $75,000 extra it has cost in just the last 10 weeks to pay for two
premises,” Phil Goff said.
ENDS