Police Minister Rene Hidding subject of Code of Conduct complaint by MLC Ruth Forrest

INDEPENDENT MLC Ruth Forrest will pursue a Code of Conduct complaint against Police Minister Rene Hidding and is considering going to the police over an alleged bullying incident.

Independent MP Ruth Forrest has made bullying allegations against Rene Hidding. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

INDEPENDENT MLC Ruth Forrest will pursue a Code of Conduct complaint against Police Minister Rene Hidding and is considering going to the police over an alleged bullying incident.

In turn, Mr Hidding says he will pursue legal action over Ms Forrest’s accusations.

Ms Forrest told State Parliament last month Mr Hidding “threatened, intimidated and bullied” her over legislation to enable old rail corridors to be opened up for community uses.

She said she was left feeling upset and angry after the incident that occurred during the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association dinner on September 20.

After seeking legal advice Ms Forrest will pursue a Code of Conduct complaint.

“The decision I have taken reflects my commitment to speak out,” Ms Forrest said.

“I support the view of the Australian of the Year, David Morrison, that the standard you walk past is the standard you accept. I believe all behaviour within the Parliament and outside the Parliament needs to reflect this standard.

“I am also considering, as a result of legal advice, whether I will report the matter to Tasmania Police for investigation.”

Reflecting on the incident itself, the Government’s handling of it and the fact that several other MPs were present, Ms Forrest said she had reported it to White Ribbon.

Police Minister Rene Hidding apologised to MLC Ruth Forrest after she raised the bullying allegations in State Parliament. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

MORE: HIDDING APOLOGISES TO MLC RUTH FORREST

In response to Ms Forrest’s statement, the State Government issued the following one-line statement on behalf of Mr Hidding:

“I reject Ms Forrest’s accusations in her statement today and I am now seeking to take legal action. I will have more to say on this tomorrow.”

Mr Hidding has resisted calls for his resignation over the incident, as has Premier Will Hodgman.

Mr Hodgman said last week he had taken advice from the secretary of his department and from the Solicitor-General, and was satisfied Mr Hidding had not breached the Ministerial Code of Conduct.