New Zealand Ministry of
Foreign Affairs and Trade
Manatū Aorere
12 October 2022
195 Lambton Quay
Private Bag 18−901
Wellington 6160
New Zealand
Richard Wang
T +64 4 439 8000
F +64 4 472 9596
[FYI request #20665 email]
OIA 28314
Tēnā koe Richard Wang
I refer to your email of 26 September 2022 via fyi.org.nz in which you requested the following
under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA):
I understand MFAT runs the so-called 'China Capable Public Sector' programme, which is
supposed to support engagement with the people of mainland China and its island
possessions, and their government (the PRC). It appears you have run multiple events
with Ford Hart, a hostile foreigner who dislikes Chinese people.
Please provide all documents related to the decision to have Hart, a longtime servant of
the American empire and its machinations against China and New Zealand with a noted
dislike for the Chinese people and their government, speak to New Zealand public servants
at least twice.
The Mininistry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (the Ministry) does not hold the information you are
requesting. Therefore we are refusing your request in full under section 18(e) of the OIA, as the
information you have requested does not exist.
Since 2015, the China Capable Public Sector (CCPS) programme has established itself as a whole-
of-government initiative to build public sector capability and collaboration to help New Zealand
engage successfully in our complex and strategic relationship with China. The CCPS exists to
equip public servants with China-related knowledge, expertise, and networks to make informed,
effective, and efficient contributions to agency outcomes and government priorities.
Further details on the CCPS programme can be found on the China Capable Public Sector website
here:
https://chinacapable.org.nz.
In most cases, the CCPS does not deal with speakers directly. CCPS events are delivered in
partnership with New Zealand Contemporary China Research Centre, Victoria University of
Wellington. CCPS invites a wide range of speakers to ensure that our participants hear different
perspectives. We welcomed the opportunity to hear Ford Hart’s views on issues of consequence
for New Zealand.
Please note that we may publish this letter (with your personal details redacted) on the
Ministry’s website.
e [MFAT request email]
w www.mfat.govt.nz
Page 2 of 2
If you have any questions about this decision, you can contact us by email at:
[email address]. You have the right to seek an investigation and review by the
Ombudsman of this decision by contacting
www.ombudsman.parliament.nz or freephone
0800 802 602.
Nāku noa, nā
Sarah Corbett
for Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade