What the Police Commissioner says

Commissioner Rob Robinson has ordered a full review of the allegations levelled by Louise Nicholas.

He said that the review would cover all the matters raised in the media by the complainant, the prior historical allegations and the inquiries into them.

"While matters have emerged in the media today [Saturday] it became evident to me over the course of the last week that publication of such a story was imminent. I notified the Minister of Police of this prospect and have had discussions with the Police Complaints Authority.

"Further discussions will be held with the Police Complaints Authority early in the new week at which time the authority can provide his directions to me.

"Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Steve Long will commence work to lead a review and will assemble a team of senior investigators to carry it out.

"These are serious historical allegations which involve not only individual police members but which potentially call into question the integrity of investigatory work conducted a decade ago.

"I appreciate the concerns that this story has raised in the public's mind and I will be doing my utmost to provide whatever reassurance I can to maintain the trust and confidence of the community in the integrity of New Zealand Police in 2004.

Mr Robinson said the police department was one of the few organisations providing a service 24 hours a day every day "and the public can have confidence in the service provided by thousands of dedicated men and women throughout the country".