9995 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Internal Affairs

9995 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Internal Affairs: Can the Minister confirm if the Department of Internal Affairs proposes to disestablish roles in the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Unit in response to the Government’s directive to reduce expenditure in the public service, if so, can she ensure that decision will not increase money laundering and the financing of terrorism, and can she confirm that team’s work won’t now be assumed by existing NZ Police resources?

Hon Brooke van Velden: I am advised that decisions on proposed organisational changes are the responsibility of the relevant chief executive. Furthermore, I am advised that these decisions are still to be finalised and are subject to staff consultation. These decisions will be finalised after final Cabinet decisions on Budget 2024. The Department of Internal Affairs (the Department) remains committed to fulfilling its regulatory obligations to a high standard. The Department informs me that its work will not need to be assumed by existing New Zealand Police resources due to this change.