Field 'persecuted' by the media

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Taito Phillip Field said today he felt "persecuted" by the media after the bribery and corruption allegations against him became public.

In the High Court in Auckland, crown prosecutor David Johnstone asked the former MP about allegations in the media, which started on September 12, 2005, with a broadcast by TV One. He was also shown articles from the New Zealand Herald.

"The media allegations were grossly unfair and unjustified. The media persecuted me and my family for three and a half years.

"It's time to stop," Field said.

Field denies 12 charges alleging he helped Thai nationals with immigration issues in return for them working on his properties.

He also denies 23 charges alleging he attempted to obstruct or pervert the course of justice during Noel Ingram QC's inquiry into the corruption allegations and to a subsequent police inquiry.

Field was expelled from the Labour Party after he was charged in 2007, continuing to represent Mangere as an independent MP.

He lost his seat at last year's election.

The trial is proceeding.

- NZPA