Resignation of New Zealand Minister Amidst Controversial Incident

New Zealand's Commerce Minister Andrew Bayly has resigned after admitting to inappropriate conduct during a discussion with staff, marking the first ministerial resignation under PM Christopher Luxon’s administration.

New Zealand's Commerce Minister Andrew Bayly has stepped down after an incident where he admitted to "placing a hand" on a staff member's upper arm, which he himself labeled as "overbearing" behavior. His resignation, announced on Monday, follows backlash over the incident that occurred during what Bayly described as an "animated discussion" about work. Although he leaves his ministerial role, he retains his position as a Member of Parliament.

This resignation marks the first under Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, whose handling of the situation has faced criticism from opposition leader Chris Hipkins, calling the Prime Minister's response "incredibly weak." Bayly's resignation comes after a prior controversy where he reportedly insulted a winery worker, further casting a shadow over his actions.

"I took the discussion too far," Bayly said in a statement, expressing regret and acknowledging the inappropriateness of his actions. Prime Minister Luxon deemed the rapid response to the incident impressive, while critics argue that the issue should not have lingered over the weekend.

Bayly, who has served in Parliament since 2014, has experienced diminishing support as Luxon’s government also faces scrutiny over policies perceived as anti-Māori. Scott Simpson, the National Party’s senior whip, has been appointed to succeed him as the Minister for ACC and the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.