There’s been intense speculation from MPs, media, and the public about the legal matters involving Liberal MPs. Now, in a major revelation, Jeremy Rockliff has admitted these matters relate to questions over wrongdoing by his MPs.
In response to a question asking when Tasmanians will receive answers in relation to the legal matters concerning Madeleine Ogilvie and Jane Howlett, the Premier said:
“When these matters are resolved and we’ve gone through the process, we will be, and the Ministers will be, and the individuals will be very open and clear, and all the details will be provided. Can I also say if individuals are found to be in the wrong, then all those legal fees will need to be paid back to the Tasmanian taxpayer.”
This statement from the Premier is the first time he or anyone in his government has acknowledged these legal matters concern a question of wrongdoing by Ms Ogilvie and Ms Howlett.
For someone to be “found to be in the wrong”, they must be accused of wrongdoing, and that accusation must be under investigation or consideration by an authority. While the Premier provided no additional information about what type of accusation was made, or which authority may be looking into it, his statement has confirmed there is a serious cloud over the conduct of both a current Minister and a former Minister.
This is particularly significant new information in relation to Madeleine Ogilvie. When she told Parliament she was a party to a Supreme Court matter, she made it clear that it was a proceeding she had initiated. Now, however, we have discovered that while she might have started the court case, that case relates to a wider question over her conduct.
This revelation from the Premier kicks the legal fees scandal to a new level and raises even more questions. First and foremost is – why has the Premier and the Cabinet agreed to pay for legal costs for MPs that are accused of wrongdoing?
The Greens will continue to press this matter on behalf of all Tasmanians.
