Prime Minister demands answers after press secretary resigns over allegations

Thursday 5 June 2025 · 5 outlets · 7 reports · updated Thu 5 Jun 2025, 12:43pm

In this story Christopher Luxon, Michael Forbes, Prime Minister's Office, Ministerial Services

Acting deputy chief press secretary Michael Forbes resigned on Wednesday following allegations he recorded audio of sex workers without consent. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed shock at the revelations and is demanding answers regarding staff vetting and disclosure processes. Forbes has apologised for the alleged conduct.

How they headlined it

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1. RNZThu 5 Jun 2025, 10:37am

   Watch live: Christopher Luxon faces questions as press secretary Michael Forbes resigns (opens in new tab)

2. 1NewsThu 5 Jun 2025, 10:44am

   Full video: Prime Minister speaks after staffer quits - 'Utterly unacceptable' (opens in new tab)

   • Live: Prime Minister speaks to media after staffer quits (opens in new tab) Thu 5 Jun 2025, 10:44am
   • PM 'shocked' at revelations about former staffer (opens in new tab) Thu 5 Jun 2025, 12:21pm
3. NZ HeraldThu 5 Jun 2025, 11:05am

   Watch live: Christopher Luxon speaks after deputy press secretary Michael Forbes resigns (opens in new tab)

4. The Press via The PostThu 5 Jun 2025, 11:07am

   Prime Minister Christopher Luxon takes questions amid press secretary allegations (opens in new tab)

5. StuffThu 5 Jun 2025, 12:43pm

   Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s ‘absolute shock’ over Michael Forbes allegations (opens in new tab)