June 14, 2010
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News: Three Lose Positions Over CC Scandal
New Zealand has had its share of credit card scandals in recent days, particularly concerning members of the Labour party. Phil Goff, head of the Labour party is expected to release details of a party overhaul resulting from alleged credit card abuse. Goff had already demoted Shane Jones, Chris Carter and Mita Ririnui as a result of the review of thousands of receipts that indicated the three had abused their ministerial credit card privileges while in office. There is speculation that Charles Chauvel and Nanaia Mahuta will be taking two of the slots left opened by the demotions. Most likely Chauvel will move forward to the front bench and Maryan will take over the Foreign Affairs portfolio stripped from Carter.
The three accused will be present at a meeting today with other top party leaders where they will face their colleagues for the first time since the credit card scandal broke. Although the three reimbursed the party of the questionable transactions, the fact remains that they broke the rules governing the use of ministerial credit cards. Carter and Jones have acknowledged their wrong doing and appear to be accepting their punishment in a mature manner. However, Ririnui has not responded to any questions. The three were stripped of their duties and demoted to caucus ranks. Jones expressed his deep regret of letting down himself, as well as his family and friends and colleagues. Carter said he accepted Goff's decision and said he will focus on his position in Parliament.
Public outraged began to brew when the media leaked that Jones had used his ministerial credit card to pay for pornographic movies at hotels while traveling. Carter who had used his ministerial card on numerous occasions for personal expenses including massages for both he and his partner, did not heed warnings to stop. Carter also used the card to pay for personal vacations overseas. Ririnui used his ministerial card to purchase sporting goods for personal use including a bike and golf clubs.