PM stresses ‘high expectations’

Police could still become involved in the investigation of Customs Minister Meka Whaitiri’s incident with a staffer, sources have told Stuff.

Whaitiri, a minister outside Cabinet, was stood down from all her portfolios on Thursday night while Ministerial Services conducts an investigation into an issue between her and a staffer.

Sources confirmed on Thursday that police were not involved but said it was too early in the investigation to rule that in or out. It’s understood the alleged incident was a physical altercation between Whaitiri and a member of her staff, which other media have reported as an assault.

Different sources have offered differing versions of events but all agreed Whaitiri got physical during the confrontation after yelling at the staffer.

The press secretary was a new addition to the office, which Stuff understands has gone through an entire rotation of staff during Whaitiri’s time as minister.

Stuff has attempted to contact Whaitiri to put the allegations to her.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern refused to comment on the allegation of ‘‘manhandling’’ yesterday, saying she would not be commenting while the investigation took place.

‘‘I need to allow natural justice to apply here,’’ Ardern said.

The prime minister said Labour monitored staff turnover in its ministers’ offices, and had high expectations for all of the executive.

‘‘I do set high expectations and the public will see that when those expectations have not been met I will act.’’