Further to his replies to 27999 and 27991 (2026), does the Public Service Commissioner have the power to investigate potential breaches of political neutrality by Crown Entities or their officials without a formal complaint being made by anyone?

Answer

I am advised the Commissioner may conduct investigations into Crown entities where these relate to matters of integrity, accountability and transparency. This includes concerns relating to political neutrality, which is covered by the minimum standards of integrity and conduct issued by the Commissioner. (Refer to the Public Service Act 2020, Schedule 3 Clause 5(4)). Note that the Commissioner considers a range of factors when determining whether to investigate a potential issue, including whether the significance of the matter warrants investigation and whether the Commission is best placed to look into the matter. More information on how the Commissioner exercises this discretion is available at the following link: https://www.publicservice.govt.nz/about-the-commission/when-we-investigate