By Patrick Gower
The John Banks donations controversy deepened again today, with Mr Banks admitting he lobbied on behalf of Kim Dotcom as part of the internet billionaire's bid to get Government approval to buy the Chrisco mansion.
Mr Banks still did not admit knowledge of the $50,000 donation and John Key did not stand him down as a minister.
John Banks arrived in Wellington for work at Parliament.
But in his bid to avoid questions, he headed toward a plane bound for New Plymouth.
Mr Banks did say he “advocated for” Mr Dotcom.
MP Maurice Williamson was in charge of signing off the Overseas Investment Office approval for Mr Dotcom to buy the Chrisco Mansion.
He initially approved it, but when his more senior colleague Simon Power said no, Mr Williamson changed his mind.
“Mr Banks’ advocacy played no part in our decision, which we declined,” says Mr Williamson.
The police have been called in after Mr Banks declared donations from Sky City Casino and Mr Dotcom as anonymous.
But John Key is keeping Banks safe.
“It is now a matter for the police,” says Mr Key. “It’s not for me to do a forensic analysis.”
Neither Mr Key nor Mr Banks are about to surrender.
As each day goes by, John Banks admits he knows more, and did more for Mr Dotcom, than previously thought.
But until there is absolutely irrefutable evidence he knew about the donation, John Key will keep him.
3 News