MP gives Pyne inquiry a nudge

A parliamentary inquiry into Christopher Pyne’s new job is closer to reality with a senior Labor frontbencher backing the probe.

Christopher Pyne, whose role with EY is inching closer to a Senate inquiry. Picture: Kym Smith

A parliamentary inquiry into Christopher Pyne’s new job is inching closer to reality with a senior Labor frontbencher backing the probe, which is also likely to receive support from the Greens and key crossbenchers.

Opposition resources spokesman Joel Fitzgibbon said it was “appropriate” for parliament to investigate whether Mr Pyne was in breach of the ministerial code for taking a job as a defence industry consultant at EY.

The code states that for 18 months after leaving office, former ministers must not “lobby, advocate or have business meetings with members of the government … on any matters on which they have had official dealings as a ­minister”.

“It’s hard to see how Christopher is not in breach of that 18-month rule. I read his statement carefully. I read it objectively,” Mr Fitzgibbon told the ABC. “I don’t want it to be a witch-hunt but it is difficult to see that he’s not in breach and I think it’s appropriate for the parliament to take a look.”

Mr Fitzgibbon’s comments came after opposition Senate leader Penny Wong said Labor was considering supporting an inquiry on the issue proposed by Centre Alliance senator Rex Patrick. The Senate inquiry would need the support of Labor, the Greens and four out of six crossbenchers.

“We are certainly considering Senator Patrick’s proposition,” Senator Wong said. “The first issue is to not allow Mr Morrison to get away with ducking on this. I mean this is his responsibility. They are the Prime Minister’s standards.”

There could be a vote for the proposal in the Senate on Thursday if it is lodged by Senator Patrick before parliament adjourns tomorrow. Senator Patrick said he had received in-principle support from Labor for the inquiry, but its initial terms of reference may have to be modified.

Senator Patrick said he would stop his inquiry push if Mr Pyne quit the role.

Mr Pyne has said he would put in place “rigorous processes and procedur­es” to ensure he did not breach the ministerial code.

“Of course, I have 26 years of experience of the parliament and politics, experience in the health, ageing, education, industry, innovation and science portfolios.”