78895 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Māori Development

78895 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Māori Development: What information regarding conflicts of interest is explicitly requested or expected to be declared as part of the appointment process for Crown boards within ministries, departments, and agencies for which the Minister is responsible?

Hon Tama Potaka: When it comes to conflicts of interest, as an example I refer the member to Te Kawa Mataaho | Public Service Commission's “Board Appointment and Induction Guidelines”, which specifies the information regarding conflicts of interest that potential appointees are expected to declare for the Crown entities for which I am responsible. For other appointments, the CabGuide “The appointments process” provides relevant guidance. I am advised that the current edition of Te Kawa Mataaho | Public Service Commission's “Board Appointment and Induction Guidelines” was released in Hereturikōkā 2024, whereas the CabGuide relating to appointments has not changed since Kohitātea 2018. As always, the process for making appointments occurs according to the requirements of the relevant statute or rules. That has not changed since 17 Whiringa-ā-rangi 2018. Finally, officials working on appointment processes advise me of any relevant conflicts of interest assessments for potential board appointees which assists in avoiding situations arising where appointments would not proceed connected with, or because of, conflicts of interest. In respect of any individual examples, I do not think it would be in the public interest to comment.