ABC board ordered probe into Guthrie claims, then sacked her

The ABC board has revealed it launched an independent investigation into serious issues Michelle Guthrie raised with it the day before she was sacked.

Former ABC chairman Justin Milne (left) and former managing director Michelle Guthrie.

The ABC board has revealed that it launched an independent investigation into problems former managing director Michelle Guthrie raised with it, the day she before she was sacked.

In a statement defending its actions following the tumultuous week which also saw chairman Justin Milne tender his resignation, the board said the investigation was being carried out by an external adviser and remains underway.

Mr Milne has been accused of demanding Ms Guthrie sack chief economics correspondent Emma Alberici because the government “hated” her, and directing Ms Guthrie to “shoot” political editor Andrew Probyn following a meeting with Malcolm Turnbull.

Questions have been raised about why the board did not take action against Mr Milne for conduct which has been seen to compromise the broadcaster’s independence.

The Morrison government has since appointed company director Kirstin Ferguson as acting ABC chair.

In a statement issued this morning, the board said it had always acted in the best interests of the ABC, “has fully debated any issues presented to it and ensured that editorial independence has been maintained.”

“We are united in defending the independence of the corporation,” the board said.

“We have done our job thoughtfully and with due regard to board process.”

The board said it had received a letter from Ms Guthrie late on Friday September 21.

“In that letter, Ms Guthrie responded to several issues that the board raised with her.

“In addition, the former managing director raised other matters that she requested the board investigate on a confidential basis.”

Ms Guthrie’s resignation was announced last Monday.

“The board resolved on Sunday 23 September 2018 to appoint an external, independent expert adviser to investigate these matters,” the board said.

“That investigation is underway, and it is not appropriate for the board or the ABC to make any further comment pending its completion.

“The board is focused on supporting the Acting Managing Director David Anderson, his leadership team and all employees in fulfilling the ABC’s charter remit and serving the community.”

Ms Guthrie said she was “devastated” at the board’s decision to terminate her employment halfway through her five-year term and that she was considering her legal options.

In a brief statement, a spokesman for Mr Milne said he welcomed the inquiry and looked forward to the facts being established.

“The inquiry was discussed at a board meeting on September 23 and he voted in favour,” the spokesman said.