❓ Opposition calls for Royal Commission into WA Police Service, citing concerns over Operation Red Emperor, Petrelis' death, Argyle Diamonds affair, leaked criminal records, and drug discovery. Minister defends current oversight and cultural changes, questioning the need and cost.
AnsweredQoN 233Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
Over the past seven years, the Opposition has said repeatedly that it will establish a royal commission into the Western Australia Police Service. Does the minister have any information about the terms of reference proposed by the Opposition? Mr PRINCE
AnswerView source ↗
The Opposition’s draft policy paper of 19 September, headed “executive summary”, states - . . . Labor will: Appoint a Royal Commission into Police Corruption as a matter of priority. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . . That operation was set up by the former Commissioner of Police, Bob Falconer, to target organised crime. It was headed by Detective Sergeant Coombs, who has since been stood down. On 7 August - that is, before the Four Corners television program went to air - the Commissioner of Police, Barry Matthews, said he was satisfied that Mr Falconer’s decision to shut down the operation was appropriate. He pointed out that it was compromised, that dangerous activities were being undertaken and that some management issues could have landed the agency in trouble. The commissioner said that he had looked at a number of aspects of the operation and that he did not know why Mr Falconer took so long to decide it was a dead duck. After the Four Corners report, the commissioner told Liam Bartlett during an ABC radio interview that there was nothing new in the report and that although the Red Emperor operation was wound up in 1998, it was formally closed down in 1997. It is interesting to note that Mr Bob Kucera, a Labor Party candidate in the next election, has said that it would now be difficult to avoid a royal commission. The member for Midland has said that she has called for a royal commission as a result of the Four Corners report, and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr John Kizon have supported those calls. The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Mr PRINCE replied: The Opposition’s draft policy paper of 19 September, headed “executive summary”, states - . . . Labor will: Appoint a Royal Commission into Police Corruption as a matter of priority. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . . That operation was set up by the former Commissioner of Police, Bob Falconer, to target organised crime. It was headed by Detective Sergeant Coombs, who has since been stood down. On 7 August - that is, before the Four Corners television program went to air - the Commissioner of Police, Barry Matthews, said he was satisfied that Mr Falconer’s decision to shut down the operation was appropriate. He pointed out that it was compromised, that dangerous activities were being undertaken and that some management issues could have landed the agency in trouble. The commissioner said that he had looked at a number of aspects of the operation and that he did not know why Mr Falconer took so long to decide it was a dead duck. After the Four Corners report, the commissioner told Liam Bartlett during an ABC radio interview that there was nothing new in the report and that although the Red Emperor operation was wound up in 1998, it was formally closed down in 1997. It is interesting to note that Mr Bob Kucera, a Labor Party candidate in the next election, has said that it would now be difficult to avoid a royal commission. The member for Midland has said that she has called for a royal commission as a result of the Four Corners report, and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr John Kizon have supported those calls. The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
The Opposition’s draft policy paper of 19 September, headed “executive summary”, states - . . . Labor will: Appoint a Royal Commission into Police Corruption as a matter of priority. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . . That operation was set up by the former Commissioner of Police, Bob Falconer, to target organised crime. It was headed by Detective Sergeant Coombs, who has since been stood down. On 7 August - that is, before the Four Corners television program went to air - the Commissioner of Police, Barry Matthews, said he was satisfied that Mr Falconer’s decision to shut down the operation was appropriate. He pointed out that it was compromised, that dangerous activities were being undertaken and that some management issues could have landed the agency in trouble. The commissioner said that he had looked at a number of aspects of the operation and that he did not know why Mr Falconer took so long to decide it was a dead duck. After the Four Corners report, the commissioner told Liam Bartlett during an ABC radio interview that there was nothing new in the report and that although the Red Emperor operation was wound up in 1998, it was formally closed down in 1997. It is interesting to note that Mr Bob Kucera, a Labor Party candidate in the next election, has said that it would now be difficult to avoid a royal commission. The member for Midland has said that she has called for a royal commission as a result of the Four Corners report, and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr John Kizon have supported those calls. The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Appoint a Royal Commission into Police Corruption as a matter of priority. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
- The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
It is interesting to note that Mr Bob Kucera, a Labor Party candidate in the next election, has said that it would now be difficult to avoid a royal commission. The member for Midland has said that she has called for a royal commission as a result of the Four Corners report, and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr John Kizon have supported those calls. The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
[See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Mr PRINCE replied: The Opposition’s draft policy paper of 19 September, headed “executive summary”, states - . . . Labor will: Appoint a Royal Commission into Police Corruption as a matter of priority. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . . That operation was set up by the former Commissioner of Police, Bob Falconer, to target organised crime. It was headed by Detective Sergeant Coombs, who has since been stood down. On 7 August - that is, before the Four Corners television program went to air - the Commissioner of Police, Barry Matthews, said he was satisfied that Mr Falconer’s decision to shut down the operation was appropriate. He pointed out that it was compromised, that dangerous activities were being undertaken and that some management issues could have landed the agency in trouble. The commissioner said that he had looked at a number of aspects of the operation and that he did not know why Mr Falconer took so long to decide it was a dead duck. After the Four Corners report, the commissioner told Liam Bartlett during an ABC radio interview that there was nothing new in the report and that although the Red Emperor operation was wound up in 1998, it was formally closed down in 1997. It is interesting to note that Mr Bob Kucera, a Labor Party candidate in the next election, has said that it would now be difficult to avoid a royal commission. The member for Midland has said that she has called for a royal commission as a result of the Four Corners report, and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr John Kizon have supported those calls. The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
The Opposition’s draft policy paper of 19 September, headed “executive summary”, states - . . . Labor will: Appoint a Royal Commission into Police Corruption as a matter of priority. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . . That operation was set up by the former Commissioner of Police, Bob Falconer, to target organised crime. It was headed by Detective Sergeant Coombs, who has since been stood down. On 7 August - that is, before the Four Corners television program went to air - the Commissioner of Police, Barry Matthews, said he was satisfied that Mr Falconer’s decision to shut down the operation was appropriate. He pointed out that it was compromised, that dangerous activities were being undertaken and that some management issues could have landed the agency in trouble. The commissioner said that he had looked at a number of aspects of the operation and that he did not know why Mr Falconer took so long to decide it was a dead duck. After the Four Corners report, the commissioner told Liam Bartlett during an ABC radio interview that there was nothing new in the report and that although the Red Emperor operation was wound up in 1998, it was formally closed down in 1997. It is interesting to note that Mr Bob Kucera, a Labor Party candidate in the next election, has said that it would now be difficult to avoid a royal commission. The member for Midland has said that she has called for a royal commission as a result of the Four Corners report, and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr John Kizon have supported those calls. The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Appoint a Royal Commission into Police Corruption as a matter of priority. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
The terms of reference for the Royal Commission will include: To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
To investigate and report on specific allegations of police corruption, including but not limited to: - The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
- The abandoned Operation Red Emperor . . .
It is interesting to note that Mr Bob Kucera, a Labor Party candidate in the next election, has said that it would now be difficult to avoid a royal commission. The member for Midland has said that she has called for a royal commission as a result of the Four Corners report, and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr John Kizon have supported those calls. The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
The Opposition wants the death of protected witness Andrew Petrelis to be investigated. I refer members to tabled paper No 133 of 5 September, which is the Roberts-Smith report and which includes an extensive review of what occurred. Members may not be aware that the Queensland Coroner has determined to hold an inquest, which is scheduled to commence on 13 November. Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Members opposite want to reopen investigations into the Argyle Diamonds affair, and the Premier has already commented on that. They also want an investigation of the leaking of the criminal record of Perth City Council candidate Terry Maller to the Lord Mayor of Perth - who is, of course, a member of the Liberal Party. That matter has been extensively debated in this place. There is no point in investigating that issue because a person’s criminal record is a matter of public record. The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
The Opposition has also proposed further investigation into the discovery of drugs during a raid on the armed robbery squad. Members opposite probably do not know - otherwise they would not have included it in this proposal - that the commissioner has carried out an inquiry and that he issued a comprehensive press release on 28 March. I table that paper for the benefit of members. The document deals with the discovery of drugs on the armed robbery squad premises. I also table the Opposition’s draft policy paper. [See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
[See papers Nos 326 and 327.] Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Mr PRINCE: The leading royal commission carried out in this country was that undertaken by Mr Justice Wood in New South Wales. It cost in excess of $70m and took several years to complete. It came down with some very good recommendations that members should read and keep in mind. In summary, Justice Wood stated that there must be a fundamental change in the approach of the Police Service to corruption. That must include a systematic restructure under which all officers are empowered to reject corruption. This Government has presided over a cultural change under the Delta program, and the professional standards group reports directly to the commissioner. We now have a very strong emphasis on accountability. Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
Mr Justice Wood said that there should be a permanent, independent body, with police corruption as its focus. The Ombudsman has oversight of complaints and the ACC has that role. John Quigley said that it is better and fairer to go through the process of laying charges than to establish a royal commission. He has also said that he would go to jail before he would cooperate with the ACC. He has written this policy for the Labor Party and that is why it should never see the light of day. Members opposite sent it to the Government for advice and comment. This is my advice and comment: Do not follow it - it is a dud.
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