Premier must now take Hidding breach seriously after official complaint

 Premier finally has to take Hidding scandal seriously

 Open and transparent Code of Conduct investigation has to be carried out

 White Ribbon asked to consider position of Premier, Hidding and others as Ambassadors

 Ministerial code clear on respect, courtesy, harassment and discrimination

Premier Will Hodgman has no choice but to pursue an immediate official inquiry into his Police and Infrastructure Minister’s bullying and intimidation of Upper House MLC Ruth Forrest now that she has formally requested an investigation.

Shadow Attorney-General Lara Giddings said Ms Forrest had today written to the Premier requesting an open and transparent investigation into a potential breach of the Ministerial Code of Conduct by Rene Hidding after his appalling behaviour toward her at a function at Parliament House on September 20.

Ms Forrest is also continuing to consider referring the incident to Tasmania Police for possible investigation of breaches of the Criminal Code and, importantly, has also written to White Ribbon Australia seeking a review of its accreditation requirements in relation to the Premier’s, Mr Hidding’s and other Ministers roles as White Ribbon Ambassadors.

“The Premier’s response to this appalling incident has been equally appalling to the point where he still has not even bothered to contact Ms Forrest,” Ms Giddings said.

“His deafening silence simply cannot continue now that Ms Forrest has so strongly come out demanding a Code of Conduct inquiry, indicating that she is still considering police action and questioning the appropriateness of both his and Mr Hidding’s position as White Ribbon Ambassadors.

“The behaviour by Mr Hidding cannot continue to be ignored by the Premier who clearly was hoping he could sweep this matter under the carpet.

“Tasmanians – like Ms Forrest – will be expecting Mr Hodgman to act immediately and because this matter is so very serious, the Premier should act tonight.

“Even Mr Hidding himself has admitted his appalling behaviour was unacceptable and that, along with Ms Forrest’s strong response this afternoon after her legal advice, should finally tell him that it is time to act.”
Lara Giddings Shadow Attorney-General