Imbeciles down Under

Govt considers inquiry into TWU claims
The West Australian

The federal government will consider holding an inquiry into claims the powerful Transport Workers Union (TWU) diverted cash into a slush fund to assist the Labor election campaign.

Workplace Relations Minister Joe Hockey said Tuesday's cabinet meeting in Sydney would decide whether there should be a full investigation of these allegations.

Labor has undertaken to back any such inquiry.

"We are considering an inquiry that would have a look at the very serious allegations that have been raised involving the Transport Workers Union," Mr Hockey told ABC radio.

"The most concerning allegation is that the TWU traded off higher salaries for workers in exchange for the funds going into a secret account that is funding the ALP's campaign at the next federal election."

That follows a report on this week's Nine Network Sunday program which has forced the TWU to conduct an independent audit of its Industrial Rights Training and Education Fund.

Mr Hockey said there appeared to be a substantial amount of evidence, including testimony from individuals involved in the TWU as well as what appeared to be a large number of emails and written documents.

He said that information proved that the account existed and was being used for inappropriate purposes.

Mr Hockey said it was a good thing that Labor had promised to support any government inquiry.

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