The mystery continues about what exactly John Wright does as a Parliamentary Under-Secretary, says United New Zealand leader, Hon Peter Dunne.

Yesterday, Mr Dunne released answers to Parliamentary Questions showing that Mr Wright had no delegated duties as Under-Secretary for Racing, other than attending race meetings on the Government's behalf.

However, Mr Wright is also Under-Secretary for Industry and Regional Development, and Under-Secretary for Economic Development, but more answers to Parliamentary Questions in respect of his role in those portfolios show a similar story.

According to Written Answer 8575 from the Minister for Economic Development:

"No formal delegations have yet been made to the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Economic Development."

And in Written Question 8574, the Minister for Industry and Regional Development replies:

"No formal delegations have yet been made to the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Industry and Regional Development."

However, the Minister does acknowledge he has asked Mr Wright to "... take a particular interest in issues relating to the Industrial Supplies Office."

"The mystery is now resolved as to Mr Wright's role."

"He is in the Executive to be a modern fully taxpayer funded cultural icon."

"Roger Hall is at last being honoured for his wit and insight in 'Gliding On'."

"It can now be revealed - John Wright is the modern Jim of the Stores Board."

"And we taxpayers are the mugs who pay for it," Mr Dunne says.

ENDS