Statement From The Premier

Late yesterday, the Secretary of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, Chris Eccles, advised that, following a request from the Board of Inquiry into the Hotel Quarantine Program, he had reviewed detailed phone records that made it apparent he had phoned former Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton on the afternoon of 27 March.

Until last night, I had understood that Mr Eccles did not know if he had telephoned Mr Ashton at that time. That matter is now beyond doubt.

This morning, Mr Eccles tendered his resignation effective immediately and has outlined his reasons for doing so in his statement.

I want to acknowledge Chris’ many decades of public service spanning governments in three States and the Commonwealth and thank him for the significant contribution he has made to Victoria. I wish him all the very best.