21 Apr 2009

Seven jurors in Field trial excused

2:50 pm on 21 April 2009

There has been a delay in the trial of Taito Phillip Field in the High Court in Auckland. More than half the jury has been excused.

The Crown was due to spend the entire day opening its case against the former Labour MP, after jury members were selected on Monday.

But seven of the 12 jury members have been allowed to leave.

Specific reasons for each discharge were heard in chambers.

Justice Hansen says the fallout of jurors is larger than expected and the case is in limbo until more jurors can be empanelled on Wednesday morning.

The remaining five jurors were asked to return then.

Mr Field faces 12 charges of bribery and corruption. He also faces 23 charges of wilfully attempting to obstruct or pervert the course of justice.

He has pleaded not guilty.