Jason Walls: ZB political editor on Chris Luxon's first post-cabinet press conference as Prime Minister - Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

The Prime Minister has come to the defence of his deputy's scathing attacks on the media.

Winston Peters has been accusing reporters this week of taking bribes, in reference to the $55 million Public Interest Journalism Fund.

Applicants to the fund were asked, when appropriate, to produce funded content to support NZ identity, culture and public interest requirements, including support for the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

But, overriding this in NZME's funding agreements - a clause specifically requested by the company - is an acknowledgement of the absolute editorial independence.

Chris Luxon says he wouldn't describe the fund as a bribe - but he doesn't support it either - similar to many New Zealanders.

ZB political editor Jason Walls says it's clear Luxon isn't interested in intervening- and he's going to let Winston be Winston.

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