7. Le’aufa’amulia ASENATI LOLE-TAYLOR (NZ First) to the Minister for Whānau Ora: Does she stand by her statement that “I don’t object to any vulnerable family receiving Whānau Ora support, because that’s what the money is for”?

Hon BILL ENGLISH (Deputy Prime Minister) on behalf of the Minister for Whānau Ora: Yes.

Le’aufa’amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor: Given that answer, how does the Minister justify the Mongrel Mob receiving $20,000 through Whānau Ora?

Hon BILL ENGLISH: I am not sure what the member is referring to. I know there is a trust that is before the courts facing charges of misappropriation. I am not sure whether it is the same group that the member is referring to.

Le’aufa’amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor: Has her department undertaken any inquiries into how the Mongrel Mob came to be in receipt of $20,000 of taxpayers’ money; if so, what was the result of these inquiries?

Hon BILL ENGLISH: I understand the relevant department has made inquiries. In fact, those inquiries may have been of some assistance to the police.