Records show Barker misused card

Rick Barker had trouble getting receipts to Ministerial Services on time. Photo / Hawkes Bay Today

Former Labour Minister Rick Barker charged 16 Corona beers during a two-person meal on his ministerial credit card, and later reimbursed it for 'some' of the cost.

In the Labour government, Mr Barker held minor portfolios: internal affairs, civil defence, veterans' affairs and courts.

Inquiries under the Official Information Act showed he stacked up an $176 bill on dinner for two, which included more than a dozen beers and two rib meals at Lone Star Auckland in September 2003.

Mr Barker wrote a personal cheque of $81.50 to cover the cost of one meal and 'some drinks,' bringing the bill down to $94.50.

Corporate credit policy states using credit cards for personal use, regardless of the intent to reimburse is not permitted.

Mr Barker also had trouble getting receipts to Ministerial Services on time, receiving occasional reminders.

He lost receipts for dinners, car rentals, including a $1034.34 van rental in Washington in November 2006, and for accommodation.

One of the receipts was for $336 Terroir At Craggy restaurant in Havelock North in June 2004.

Mr Barker justified the expense as a dinner with McDonald's restaurant senior managers; the objective was to enter an arrangement to take staff from Work and Income.

"Successful," a note on his reconciliation form says.

In October 2006, two movies were ordered at a Hilton Washington Embassy Row room worth about $45, while Mr Barker was travelling to meetings relating to his civil defence and veterans' affairs portfolio.

Mr Barker couldn't be reached for comment.

- NZPA