Today I have asked the Secretary of my Department of Prime Minister & Cabinet for advice in relation to the Statement of Ministerial Standards relating to travel claims made by the Minister for Health, Aged Care and Sport, the Hon Sussan Ley MP.
The Secretary will thoroughly investigate the travel claims and the Minister has assured me that she will promptly provide all information and assistance sought by the Secretary for the purpose of this investigation.
Australians expect the Government to deal with these serious matters very thoroughly and in accordance with the Statement of Ministerial Standards.
I expect the highest standards from my Ministers in all aspects of their conduct, and especially the expenditure of public money.
The Minister has agreed to stand aside without ministerial pay until this investigation is completed by the Secretary.
I have asked Senator the Honourable Arthur Sinodinos AO to act as Minister for Health and Aged Care, and Minister for Sport.