Tamihere cleared by SFO

John Tamihere has now been cleared by two inquiries. Picture / Fotopress

Former Cabinet Minister John Tamihere has been cleared by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO).

The SFO investigated allegations that false invoices were issued by the Waipareira Trust while Mr Tamihere was its chief executive.

An earlier inquiry by Douglas White QC into the tax implications of a $195,000 payout Mr Tamihere accepted from the trust previously cleared the Labour MP of any wrongdoing.

However, two people are to be charged as a result of the SFO inquiry.

SFO director David Bradshaw said: "The charges relate to the false invoices and to irregularities in the handling of gaming monies. Mr Tamihere will not be charged."

Mr Bradshaw said the evidence did not support the laying of any charges against Mr Tamihere.

He would not make any further comment on the charges, which would be addressed by the court.

Mr Tamihere said in a statement: "I am very pleased, both for myself and my family, that I have been cleared of allegations which have been examined by the SFO.

"I can now move on and continue to advocate and work for my constituents and fight for what I believe in."

- NEWSTALK ZB, HERALD STAFF, NZPA