Defence chief's resignation demanded

Air Marshal Bruce Ferguson. Picture / Mark Mitchell

National is calling for the resignation of the Defence Force Chief after he was found to have intimidated witnesses in a personal grievance case.

The Employment Court has ordered Air Marshal Bruce Ferguson to pay $25,000 to Army archivist Dolores Ho.

She failed in her personal grievance case against the Air Marshal in which she sought more than $200,000, though he was found to have intimidated witnesses giving evidence against him.

Air Marshal Ferguson was clearly upset when informed of the decision and says he is reviewing his position with a view to an appeal.

Meanwhile, the lawyer for the Army archivist concerned is pleased the judge took a strong line on the letters of intimidation, which he describes as deliberate and bold.

Peter Cullen says he has never experienced anything like it in all his years of employment law.

- NEWSTALK ZB