Prime Minister Jacinta Allan has asked South Barwon Labor MP Darren Cheeseman to resign from his position as parliamentary secretary following allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
in a permit Released Friday afternoon, Allan said she had requested Cheeseman’s resignation from the senior role “as a result of allegations of continued inappropriate workplace behavior toward employees.”
MP for South Barron Darren Cheesman.
Two government sources — who spoke anonymously to discuss internal matters — alleged behavior related to sexual comments toward an employee.
But he was not alleged to have engaged in any physical contact.
Cheeseman has been contacted for comment.
Allan said Cheesman had agreed to resign but would remain in the Labor caucus and within the wider party.
The Prime Minister’s statement said that ministers and parliamentary secretaries are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with “the highest standards of personal conduct”.
“By law, ministers and parliamentary secretaries must take all reasonable steps to maintain respectful and appropriate working relationships with their staff, the staff of other ministers and MPs, parliamentary staff and MPs.” [Victorian public service] “Staff, ministerial colleagues and parliamentarians,” she said.
