-
Taito Phillip Field - Source: ONE News -
Watch Video
-
Related
The defence has opened its case for the former Labour MP charged
with bribery, corruption and wilfully perverting the course of
justice.
Taito Philip Field denies accepting work on his properties from
illegal immigrants in exchange for help with their immigration
problems.
After two and a half months of hearing the Crown evidence against him, Field finally took the stand on Thursday to lead off his defence.
The former Labour Party MP is facing 12 charges of bribery and corruption and a further 23 charges for wilfully perverting the course of justice during the subsequent Ingram enquiry and police investigation.
"He steadfastly maintains he is innocent of each and every allegation brought against him," says Field's lawyer Paul Davidson QC.
Field's lawyer told the court how his client was a longstanding MP who worked tirelessly for his constituents.
He said Field's help to one Thai couple's immigration issues boosted his popularity among the Thai community.
"He saw them in no different manner or way than anyone else," says Davidson.
Field also defended himself.
"I made it clear to them give me some bills and if they had expenses they should give it to me and I can pay for it," he says.
But Davison explained how Field's poor record keeping set off some unwise behaviour once the allegations of corruption were made public.
Davison conceded Field made some foolish mistakes in a panicked reaction.
Field will continue with his evidence on Friday.
Latest NZ News Video
-
Dance to save Shakti service (0:41)
-
The changing face of farming (1:49)
-
ONE Weather 6pm update: 26 May (4:56)
