Yesterday, it was brought to my attention that a long standing shareholding - that I have declared to the Parliament at every reporting period since becoming an MP - may have given rise to questions about a potential for a perceived conflict of interest with my ministerial duties.
For completeness, I confirm that I was not a decision maker in the awarding of the banking and financial services contract in 2021.
The process was run by senior independent public servants and there was a probity auditor engaged throughout who signed off on the process. I noted the outcome of the tender once it had been determined by the Department of Treasury and Finance.
Despite this, I accept that it was an error of judgement to not recognise and manage the potential for a perception of conflict of interest and I unreservedly apologise for this oversight.
For avoidance of doubt, I have spoken to the Premier and advised him that I will place all of my shareholdings in a blind trust.
