More details about the past of sacked Maori Affairs Minister Dover Samuels could emerge when the MP's police record in Australia is released.
In an attempt to head off further controversy about his background, Mr Samuels has requested a copy of his police record in Australia, which he understands includes parking and speeding "misdemeanours."
Asked yesterday if anything more serious was likely to be revealed, Mr Samuels said not that he could recall.
On Tuesday, in this third personal statement to Parliament, he listed his New Zealand police record, which included two short prison terms.
The Tai Tokerau MP's personal life has been under scrutiny since allegations were made that he had an improper relationship with a minor 16 years ago. A police inquiry into the claims has since changed focus to allegations that Mr Samuels raped the girl.
Police have finished their interviews and are to seek legal advice, which will be forwarded to Police Commissioner Rob Robinson, who will decide if charges should be laid.
Mr Samuels said yesterday that, given he was "the most scrutinised MP in the Westminster system," he thought he should request a copy of his police file from Australia.
Mr Samuels lived in Australia in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
"What happened over there is not as colourful as my New Zealand chapter," he said. "It's all actually quite boring."
He would not comment further until he received the file.
- NZPA
Samuels asks for his Australian police file
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