Departmental Investigations

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY (14:57): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Leader of the Government, representing the Premier, a question regarding internal departmental investigations.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY: On Saturday 3 May, The Advertiser printed a story regarding internal departmental investigations. In the story, the head of ICAC, Bruce Lander, speaks of his 'plans to end the culture of cover-ups in state government departments that are tasked with investigating themselves'. In the article, Mr Lander is quoted as saying:

There is a culture in some of the agencies that you investigate matters to exonerate the department, to arrive at a result that won't cause embarrassment. I find that completely unacceptable.

Can the Premier advise how the government intends to respond to Mr Lander's comments and outline what, if any, changes will be made with regard to internal departmental investigations?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Employment, Higher Education and Skills, Minister for Science and Information Economy, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Business Services and Consumers) (14:58): I thank the honourable member for his important question. I will refer that question to the Attorney-General in another place and bring back a response.