Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne has released a statement regarding recent reports that he will be charged with fraud and misappropriation over his role in the Vitals Healthcare deal.

“While I am aware of what is being said about me in the media, including what the opposition leader said in a news conference, until this time I have not received any official notification or summons,” Fearne wrote on social media.

“I also still haven’t seen the verbal-process or what is in the magisterial inquiry about me. Therefore, at this moment I cannot comment further.”

“I can only say that I have always, always served my duty with the greatest legitimacy and integrity, and I have certainly never strayed towards breaking the law. This is also stated by the Auditor General in three detailed reports he made on this case, so much so that he strongly observed that ‘the exclusion of the Health Minister from any significant involvement in the progress of this -concession directly related to public health’.”