ACT party founder Sir Roger Douglas has come to the defence of leader John Banks, describing the row over his mayoral campaign as a media beat-up.
Mr Banks has been widely criticised for declaring donations to his campaign for the Auckland mayoralty in 2010 from internet entrepreneur Kim Dotcom to be anonymous.
Mr Dotcom says Mr Banks was aware of the source of the donations.
Speaking to TVNZ's Q+A programme, Sir Roger said Mr Banks is doing well as ACT leader in promoting the party's principles and has been the most consistent leader the party has had for some time.
He says the media has been one-sided in its reporting of the donations issue, and there are more important issues to be discussing, such as welfare and education.
