The ACT’s Integrity Commission may have the power to intercept telephone conversations under a bill being introduced to the Legislative Assembly by the Canberra Liberals.

Canberra Liberals Leader Elizabeth Lee – who will present the bill this week – said Integrity Commissioner Michael Adams KC had spoken previously about the “urgent”  need for telecommunications interception powers in order for the commission to conduct its investigations properly.

“The Commissioner said in hearings last month that the AFP has indicated they have material that would be of assistance to investigations but due to current legislation he is unable to access it,” Lee said.

Lee said she was “disappointed” that the ACT’s integrity agency doesn’t have the same legal authority to intercept phone conversations as others states.

“Integrity in government is of utmost importance and it is disappointing the ACT remains one of the only jurisdictions where the integrity body does not have this power,” she said.

“In the recent Estimates Hearings, the Integrity Commissioner revealed the Chief Minister has not even responded to his request for a meeting regarding critical changes required in legislation, specifically telephone interception powers.

“The Chief Minister continues to delay implementing this important piece of legislation and is clearly dragging his heels on the issue.”