Newest Act MP faces glare of media scrutiny

New Act New Zealand MP Hilary Calvert with party leader Rodney Hide field questions at a press...
New Act New Zealand MP Hilary Calvert with party leader Rodney Hide field questions at a press conference in Auckland yesterday. Photo by Getty Images.
New Act New Zealand list MP Hilary Calvert, from Dunedin, met party leader Rodney Hide in Auckland yesterday facing up to a barrage of questions about her past.

She told the Otago Daily Times she was asked whether she had any criminal convictions but could answer she had none.

However, she did admit that a brothel was run from one of her investment properties.

Ms Calvert replaces disgraced MP David Garrett who resigned from Parliament after admitting he had gained a false passport using the identity of a dead child.

Ms Calvert said her focus yesterday was on assuring Mr Hide of her support and to discuss with him her role after she was sworn in on October 12.

It was hoped her maiden speech would be held as soon as possible after her swearing in.

Parliament was in recess for the next two weeks but Ms Calvert planned to spend time with both Mr Hide and deputy leader John Boscawen as they attended various conferences, including workshops of the new foreshore and seabed legislation.

"I am keen to get on and get something done. It is in the early stages, but there are discussions about what my best use in caucus will be. They are very pleased to have another lawyer in Parliament."

There was lots happening around the confidence and supply agreement Act had with the National Party but Ms Calvert indicated she would be a strong advocate for the South in caucus.

"The Auckland people think it is all about them, but it's not."

The Chief Electoral Office last night announced that Ms Calvert had been elected to Parliament, the essential legal confirmation that she is an MP.

She will be sworn in when Parliament returns from its two-week recess on October 12.

 

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