Labour Party leader Andrew Little says an independent inquiry into a 2010 raid in Afghanistan is the only way to reassure the public it can have confidence in the defence forces.
Nicky Hager and Jon Stephenson's book Hit & Run claims six civilians were killed in the raid on two Afghan villages involving New Zealand's SAS.
Watch Andrew Little interview on Morning Report here:
Mr English yesterday ruled out an inquiry after being briefed by the Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Tim Keating, and watching video footage of the operation shot by some of the aircraft involved.
Mr Little told Morning Report he had great respect for General Keating but the Defence Force should not be judging the matter.
"There are serious allegations, there is a lack of clarity about the extent of civilian casualties, and for the sake of the Defence Force's reputation here and abroad, and public confidence in them, we need an independent inquiry."
