Report by Tanya Singh:
Former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins, whose allegations of rape have rocked Parliament House, has called on the Prime Minister to establish an independent body for staff to take complaints in her first public comments since he offered her an public apology for the way the matter was handled.
Ms Higgins revealed this week she was sexually assaulted in Defence Minister Linda Reynolds office and felt forced to choose between her job and taking the matter to police.
The lady mentioned she had been raped within the workplace of Defence Minister Linda Reynolds in March 2019 by somebody who additionally labored for Morrison’s ruling Liberal celebration.
She advised native media she spoke with the police in early April of that yr, however she determined in opposition to making a proper criticism amid considerations about her profession prospects. Police within the capital confirmed they’d spoken to a complainant in April 2019, however she selected to not make a proper criticism.
Morrison on Tuesday apologised to the lady and promised an investigation.
“That ought to not have occurred, and I do apologise,” Morrison advised reporters in Canberra. “I wish to ensure that any younger girl working on this place is as secure as attainable.”
Morrison mentioned he has appointed Division of the Prime Minister and Cupboard official Stephanie Foster to overview the method in coping with office complaints, whereas a backbench lawmaker will examine office tradition.The allegation has intensified strain on Morrison after a collection of allegations of improper behaviour in the direction of girl inside the Liberal celebration.
