30395 (2026). Rt Hon Chris Hipkins to the Prime Minister

30395 (2026). Rt Hon Chris Hipkins to the Prime Minister: Further to his answer to written question 29418 (2026): was he aware when his Chief of Staff approved Hon Shane Jones travel on 4 February 2026 that Hon Shane Jones had already booked business class tickets for this travel despite his Cabinet Paper ‘Proposed Travel Overseas: Hon Shane Jones – March 2025” noting that he would fly premium economy, if so, on what date did he become aware?

Rt Hon Christopher Luxon: No. I am advised that my Chief of Staff considered a request for additional funding in February 2026, after Hon Shane Jones’ travel occurred. I am advised that the request for approval stated increased costs were attributable to the incorrect flight booking class being provided, and the omission of costs for ground transport.