National makes new Field case complaint

National is demanding Parliament's privileges committee investigates "threats" made by Immigration Minister David Cunliffe against National Party MPs.

Last week in Parliament Mr Cunliffe refused to answer questions about embattled Labour MP Taito Phillip Field's visa applications, but then detailed cases of visa applications by National MPs.

National MP Bill English said to threaten or intimidate MPs trying to do their duty was a contempt of Parliament.

He said he had written to Speaker Margaret Wilson saying it was the Opposition's job to hold ministers to account and reports and for Mr Cunliffe to threaten to bring up cases of National MPs was a breach of privilege.

- NZPA