A new brochure and application form for people considering seeking exercise of the Royal prerogative of mercy are now available on the internet.
The new documents have been written in plain language and can be downloaded from the website of the Governor-General of New Zealand, or provided in hard copy on request. All applicants will be required to complete the application form. Assistance may be requested by persons who are not fluent in English.
"The Royal prerogative of mercy is an important constitutional safeguard providing a special avenue for cases to be re-opened where a person may have been wrongly convicted or sentenced," says Robert Taylor, Official Secretary to the Governor-General.
"It is essential that potential applicants have easy to follow information about the process and know what details they need to provide on making an application. These documents have been designed with that in mind."
To download the information pamphlet or application form go to:
http://www.gg.govt.nz/role/royalprerogative.htm
For further information please contact: Antony Paltridge, Public Affairs Manager, Government House on 04 382 0827 or 021 470 583