Fresh questions for the Prime Minister over how much access lobbyists have to the halls of power.

Official documents released to RNZ show Government departments are paying lobbyists hundreds of thousands of dollars for communications advice.

Documents also show Chris Hipkins' Chief of Staff, Andrew Kirton, was previously working for liquor firms to lobby ministers to water down the now scrapped container return scheme.

Hipkins told Mike Hosking anyone can seek a meeting with ministers, but admits some people, like Kirton, may have had an "in", because they know ministers personally.

LISTEN ABOVE

Fresh questions for the Prime Minister over how much access lobbyists have to the halls of power.
Official documents released to RNZ show Government departments are paying lobbyists hundreds of thousands of dollars for communications advice.
Documents also show Chris Hipkins' Chief of Staff, Andrew Kirton, was previously working for liquor firms to lobby ministers to water down the now scrapped container return scheme.
Hipkins told Mike Hosking anyone can seek a meeting with ministers, but admits some people, like Kirton, may have had an "in", because they know ministers personally.
LISTEN ABOVE

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Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show. Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda. The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion, delivers the best talent, and always leaves you wanting more. The Mike Hosking Breakfast always cuts through and delivers the best daily on Newstalk ZB.

Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show.

Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda.

The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion,...

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