Craig Foss picks up climate change portfolio

 

Tukituki MP and cabinet minister Craig Foss has become acting minister of Climate Change Issues following the resignation of Dr Nick Smith from his Ministerial portfolios.

Prime Minister John Key said today he had accepted with sadness the resignation of Dr Nick Smith from his Ministerial portfolios.

 

The resignation follows questions about Dr Smith's judgement in supporting an ACC claimant while he was Minister during the previous term.

"It is important that Ministers are seen to actively manage both real and perceived conflicts of interest in the exercise of their duties," says Mr Key.

"I have always expected high standards from my Ministers - and I will continue to do so."

In addition to the acting role in Climate Change picked up today, Mr Foss is also minister of Commerce and Broadcasting.

Gerry Brownlee picks up the Local Government portfolio and Chris Finlayson is in Environment.