Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Friday that a retired judge will hold an inquiry into how his predecessor was able to secretly amass unprecedented ministerial powers in defiance of political conventions.
Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese orders inquiry into Scott Morrison’s ‘secret’ powers
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Friday that a retired judge will hold an inquiry into how his predecessor was able to secretly amass unprecedented ministerial powers in defiance of political conventions.
Albanese told reporters in Sydney that former High Court judge Virginia Bell will lead the inquiry into former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison appointing himself to ministerial roles.
He said the inquiry will provide transparency about Morrison’s appointments.
“The inquiry will make recommendations to the government on any changes which could provide greater transparency and accountability to ensure that this can never happen again,” Albanese said.
He said Bell will provide her report back to the government by November 25.
Morrison secretly appointed himself to five ministerial roles between March 2020 and May 2021, usually without the knowledge of the original minister.
