NSW Police Commissioner Orders Review of Gift Policies Following Gin Controversy
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb has ordered a review of the department's gift-giving policies following accusations that she purchased over 100 bottles of gin with taxpayer money. The commissioner has denied any wrongdoing, stating that the bottles were intended for gifts and charitable donations.
The controversy began when independent MP Rod Roberts accused Commissioner Webb of purchasing the gin and using some of it herself. He made the accusations under parliamentary privilege, which protects him from legal action.
The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) also investigated the matter and found that Commissioner Webb should have disclosed her association with the gin distributor when she became aware of the purchase. However, the LECC did not find any evidence of serious misconduct.
In response to the accusations, Commissioner Webb released a statement confirming that her office would no longer distribute bottles of gin. She also stated that she had reviewed the stock and gift register and confirmed that 32 bottles had been distributed as gifts or donated to charity. The remaining 18 bottles would be donated to Police Legacy for fundraising purposes.
A second order of 50 bottles had not yet been paid for and would be returned to the supplier. Commissioner Webb also released a copy of the gift register, detailing where the bottles were distributed.
The LECC's investigation, known as Operation Askern, concluded that the purchase of the gin was in accordance with NSW Police policies. However, the commission also found shortcomings in Commissioner Webb's behaviour, specifically her failure to disclose her association with the gin distributor.
The controversy has raised questions about the appropriateness of using taxpayer money to purchase alcohol as gifts. It has also highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in public office.