National rejects poll action

Winston Peters

National says it will not counter-claim against NZ First leader Winston Peters' petition in Tauranga alleging that new MP Bob Clarkson overspent.

Last week Mr Peters' lawyer, Brian Henry, filed an election petition in the High Court alleging Mr Clarkson overspent the $20,000 campaign limit by at least $80,000.

Mr Clarkson said yesterday he was definitely not ruling out a counter-claim.

But a party source said that would require endorsement by the party board, which had not discussed it.

Mr Henry said such a counter-claim was impossible, anyway. But it is understood a complaint could still be filed with the Chief Electoral Office alleging overspending and the office could refer such complaints to the police.