Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Self defence laws should remain unchanged - ministry

Updated at 10:18 pm on 11 March 2010

The Ministry of Justice is recommending that the laws surrounding self defence not be changed.

Justice Minister Simon Power asked for the laws to be reviewed after an Auckland liquor store owner had his charges for using a hockey stick during a violent robbery thrown out of court.

Charges against Virender Singh of injuring with intent to injure were dismissed in March last year.

A report obtained under the Official Information Act says self-defence laws are clear as they are.

However, it says, making an explicit reference to self defence in prosecution guidelines could be considered.

Mr Singh says he's disappointed with the report, and he should be able to defend himself if he's attacked again.

He says the Justice Minister should come himself to see what retailers are dealing with.

Police National Headquarters has declined to comment on the report.

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