George W. Bush has paid a fond farewell to his friend and former Vice President, Dick Cheney.

The former Republican President has spoken at Cheney's funeral at Washington's National Cathedral.

He was a divisive figure in American politics, both for his role as the driving force behind the Iraq War, and his scathing criticism of Donald Trump.

But Bush has told Cheney's family, many Americans are grieving Cheney's death.

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Mike Hosking Trump did not take part in the funeral, and wasn’t invited.

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There’s a belief that the delay in investigating the Pike River mine disaster will influence the Crown's decision on charging those responsible.

Police believe they have sufficient evidence to lay manslaughter charges against officials involved.

This week marks 15 years since the 29 men never came home from the West Coast mine.

Criminal defence lawyer Nigel Hampton KC told Mike Hosking the investigation delay, the public interest, and the families’ memories will play a role in the decision.

He says he believes the Crown will do something, but it may not be all that is desired.

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The Justice Minister isn't resting on his laurels following optimistic new crime data.

The Crime and Victims Survey shows there were 147 thousand victims of serious violent crime in the year to August.

That’s 38 thousand fewer victims than when the coalition came into Government in 2023.

Paul Goldsmith told Mike Hosking the outcome is a result of the Government going after gangs and the three-strikes law.

He says it has also ended the last Government's culture of excuses.

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