Face of the Day

An inquiry by the Parliamentary Registrar into whether National backbencher Carl Bates properly declared 25 properties has brought public attention back to MPs’ vast and varied wealth.

MPs must submit an annual return to the Registrar of Pecuniary Interests reporting their property, investments or other financial interests. It is intended to let the public see potential conflicts of interest, ensuring MPs’ personal wealth or business ties don’t secretly influence their decisions.

The records reveal the substantial wealth of some MPs, with complex portfolios including multiple homes, investment properties, farms, rentals, and overseas assets – particularly among National MPs, 13 of whom own four properties or more.

But five MPs, including National’s James Meager, who is also the Minister for the South Island, didn’t declare any property interests.

Stuff