Sabin resigns from Parliament
National knew of assault allegation pre-election, NBR understands, but chose not to withdraw his candidacy.
Prime Minister John Key has acknowledged the resignation of Northland MP Mike Sabin for personal reasons, according to a media release from his office.
Mr Key acknowledged Mr Sabin’s service as an MP since he was elected in 2011.
The Prime Minister is taking advice on the possible date for a by-election.
A National Party media release that followed soon after confirmed Mr Sabin’s resignation was effective immediately.
“Mr Sabin said he had decided to resign due to personal issues that were best dealt with outside Parliament. Mr Sabin will not be making any further comment,” the media release says.
NBR ONLINE first began researching the National MP in September.
In December, Fairfax media revealed Waitemata police were investigating an assault complaint against Mr Sabin.
It is understood the National Party was first made aware of an assault complaint against National MP Mike Sabin weeks before the 2011 election but chose not to ask Mr Sabin to withdraw his candidacy.
It is also understood that Mr Key was made aware of the allegation in April last year but chose to neither disclose this to the public nor ask the former police officer to stand down as chairman of the law and order select committee.
The Northland MP, 46, has been in Parliament since 2011 and served as a police officer in Northland before 2006.
This morning, a Whangarei barrister slammed Mr Sabin for maintaining his right to silence in the public sphere while attempting to introduce a bill to Parliament that would remove that right for certain others during police questioning.
Jamie Ball
Fri, 30 Jan 2015
Fri, 30 Jan 2015
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Sabin resigns from Parliament
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