Today I have met with the Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education and Minister for the Hunter, Tim Crakanthorp.
I have formed the view that Mr Crakanthorp has failed to comply with his obligations under the Ministerial Code of Conduct to promptly notify me of a potential conflict of interest.
This has given rise to concerns that he may have acted in matters in which he had a conflict between his public duties and the property interests of members of his family.
This is unacceptable and I have referred the matter to the ICAC.
Mr Crakanthorp’s failure to comply with the letter and the spirit of the Ministerial Code of Conduct has caused me to lose confidence in his ability to discharge his duties as a Minister.
In light of this, I have asked Mr Crakanthorp to resign and he has agreed.
On forming Government, I clearly set out my expectations to my Ministers that they conduct themselves with the highest integrity to maintain the public’s trust in government.
Deputy Premier Prue Car will assume responsibility as interim Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education and Training.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley will assume responsibility as interim Minister for the Hunter.