Port Waikato MP Andrew Bayly has resigned as a Minister in the coalition Government after putting his hand on a staff member, it’s been revealed today, February 24.
The incident happened in his office in the Beehive last Tuesday.
Bayly was the Minister for ACC, Commerce, and Consumer Affairs.
In a statement posted on social media, he says concerns were raised with him about an incident in which his behaviour towards a staff member was “overbearing” and for that, he is “deeply sorry”.
“As many of you know, I have been impatient to drive change in my ministerial portfolios.
“Last week, I had an animated discussion with a staff member about work.
“I took the discussion too far, and I placed a hand on their upper arm, which was inappropriate.
“I have apologised to the staff member and regret placing them in an uncomfortable position.
“There are times when you have to hold yourself to account. Today is one of those days.
“I have made the personal choice to resign as a Minister and have offered my resignation to the Prime Minister, which he has accepted.
“I want to extend my gratitude to all the officials and staff who have worked diligently alongside me to progress a wide suite of changes across my ministerial portfolios.
“I am incredibly proud of the work we have achieved together and I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Port Waikato as their MP and being involved in the work of Parliament.”
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says Bayly has indicated his actions fell short of the expectations he set himself, and are expected of ministers, and Luxon has accepted Bayly’s resignation.
Coromandel MP Scott Simpson becomes Minister for ACC, Commerce, and Consumer Affairs.
