Phillip Smith inquiry details released

Phillip Smith.

The Government has confirmed the terms of reference for an independent inquiry into the escape of convicted killer Phillip Smith.

State Services Minister Paula Bennett said the inquiry would look into three aspects of Smith's escape while on a three-day release from Spring Hill Prison.

The draft terms of reference focused on Smith's temporary release from prison and departure to South America, his use of multiple identities to evade authorities, and the adequacy of information sharing between Government agencies.

Mrs Bennett said: "It is imperative the inquiry provide answers to the many questions New Zealanders have around how Mr Smith/Traynor was able to abscond overseas while on temporary release from prison."

Smith escaped New Zealand by renewing a passport in his birth name Traynor and using it flee to Chile and Brazil while on temporary release.

The inquiry would be chaired by QC John Priestley, who Mrs Bennett said had "significant knowledge of the justice and public service systems".

Mr Priestley would be assisted by high-ranking public servant Simon Murdoch, who has previously served as head of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Mrs Bennett said the inquiry would report back in the second half of next year.

The inquiry was separate from an internal Department of Corrections inquiry and a multi-agency inquiry led by the Ministry of Justice.