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"Orange Grove Finding Shows Premiers Contempt
December 21st 2004

Democrat M.L.C., Dr Arthur Chesterfield-Evans concurs with majority findings of the General Purpose Standing Committee No.4 (GPSC4) inquiry into the circumstances of the so-called "Orange Grove Scandal".

"This is appalling. This report outlines a number of attempts to prevent access to documents needed to establish the truth of this issue, and pretty bravely states why there is "no evidence" of the Premiers involvement - because he wouldn't testify. His 'no-show' shows contempt for the Committee and it's role in parliament," he said.

Dr.Chesterfield-Evans, who took part in the deliberative hearings, found that the evidence presented did not support the contention that due process was followed.

Finding 12 of the Committee notes the ICAC investigation of potential corruption, in the actions of the Premier, his Chief of Staff, both the Minister and Assistant Minister for Planning, and representatives of Westfield, over the development.

"This issue is already the subject of an ICAC investigation because of the attempt to cover their trail, so I'm not surprised by the findings of the committee, nor am I surprised by the attempts by Labor members of the committee to attempt to shift the focus from the "unwise" and possibly "corrupt" actions of the State Government to the proponents and Liverpool Council." Dr. Chesterfield Evans concluded.