MPs to debate publishing judges' pecuniary interests

File photo / APN

MPs will be able to debate whether judges' pecuniary interests should be made public, after Green MP David Clendon's member's bill was drawn from the ballot today.

The idea was suggested on Tuesday in a parliamentary snap debate on the resignation of Supreme Court judge Bill Wilson, by Green MP Kennedy Graham.

Attorney General Chris Finlayson said later he had discussed the bill with Dr Graham.

"And it raises important issues," he said through a spokesman.

"I will consider it very carefully, and there may be an opportunity to look at it in the context of the forthcoming review of the Judicature Act."

Labour MP Charles Chauvel backed Dr Graham's suggestions.

Both he and Dr Graham - both lawyers - paid tribute to the former judge's reputation as a lawyer and a judge; both described the ending of his career as tragic and both were concerned with public confidence in the Supreme Court, New Zealand's newest and highest court.

- NZPA and NZHERALD STAFF