Jeremy Rockliff said he would lead a government of integrity, but he’s failed the most basic test of that commitment. Asked whether he expected MPs to cooperate with Integrity Commission investigations, the Premier wouldn’t say a word.
The Integrity Commission has an essential role – ensuring politicians are acting in the interests of the public and investigating misconduct. However, it’s been held back on critical work for more than a year and a half because there is no process for dealing with matters of parliamentary privilege. Chief Commissioner Greg Mellick has said it’s impossible to investigate a member of Parliament unless they fully cooperate.
Right now, MPs can indefinitely stall an Integrity Commission investigation simply by refusing to cooperate. Given this situation, surely the Premier should expect his MPs to do the right thing by complying with any investigation. Jeremy Rockliff’s refusal to do so will leave the public wondering if there are current investigations where Members of Parliament who are refusing to play ball.
We know there are two investigations into Members of Parliament that have been going for more than two years. It sure looks like MPs are digging in their heels to stop these investigations progressing.
Cooperating with the Integrity Commission investigations should be a basic requirement that the Premier expects from the members of his party. Disturbingly, it seems he doesn’t care.
