Labour's Muslim MP has released a statement condemning stoning after a controversial refusal to go against the Koran during an interview.

Ashraf Choudhary was asked on the TV current affairs show 60 Minutes about the practice of stoning homosexuals and adulterous women.

He refused to disagree with the Koran's recommendations, saying it was appropriate in "those societies", not in New Zealand.

Dr Choudhary's statement says he is a devout Muslim and stands by the teachings of the Koran but, as a matter of personal belief, he abhors stoning and is strongly opposed to violence.

The Prime Minister has weighed into the argument, saying she wants to make it clear her party is inherently opposed to capital punishment.

Helen Clark says Mr Choudhary's comments on the show certainly do not fit with Labour values or her own.

She says she does not care if it is in any religious tract, it is not something that is acceptable.

Miss Clark says she understands Dr Choudhary is a devout Muslim but she will discuss the matter with him.