Commenting on Rickards

In one of those rare moments, I actually partially agree with Helen Clark in her criticism of John Key for his comments on the Rickards case.

The Leader of the Opposition does have more latitude than say the PM in terms of commenting on individual disciplinary case, but nevertheless it is a somewhat dangerous habit to develop. Comments made can influence the outcome of a case, and one may find it hard as PM not to comment, if you have commented on similiar things as Opposition Leader.

The substance of what Key said, may well be absolutely correct.  It may be cheaper to negotiate a settlement than to keep paying him his full salary and package while it drags out over months and years. But that is a process best negotiated in private, not public.