Triggs ‘inducement’ evaluated
Federal police are examining claims the government offered Gillian Triggs an inducement to resign from her role as the nation’s human rights chief.
The Australian Federal Police has agreed to a Labor request to assess whether a senior legal role was dangled in front of Professor Triggs to induce her to leave the Human Rights Commission, and whether the offer constituted a bribe.
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In a statement to AAP, the AFP said it would evaluate the referral as per its usual processes.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott insists Prof Triggs was not asked to resign, nor was an inducement offered to her.
Nevertheless, he has stepped up criticism of Prof Triggs by taking aim at her decision to recommend a $300,000 compensation payment for a detained murderer.
The Australian Greens are calling for the head of Attorney-General George Brandis while independent senator Jacqui Lambie has flagged a censure move against him attorney-general in the Senate, where the government lacks a majority.