NSW Libs to suspend MPs over ICAC claims
The NSW Liberal Party will reportedly suspend three government MPs after the corruption watchdog announced an inquiry into illegal political donations.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) on Tuesday said former Liberal water minister Chris Hartcher and Liberal MPs Chris Spence and Darren Webber will be examined over allegations Liberal MPs corruptly solicited and concealed illegal political donations in return for favours to those who made the payments.
It’s been alleged members of Mr Hartcher’s staff funnelled illegal political donations, including from prohibited donors, through a front company before the 2011 election.
Senior government sources have told News Corp Australia “steps were under way” to suspend the trio from the party.
ICAC also announced on Tuesday that former NSW Labor ministers Eddie Obeid, Joe Tripodi and Tony Kelly will be grilled by the watchdog over alleged corrupt practices at a water company.
The hearing will start on March 17 with a second on April 28.