World News
NSW prosecutor discussed potential reviewers with attorney general before independent inquiry
Sally Dowling SC denied any conflict of interest regarding her professional and social connection to Noel Hutley SC, who cleared her office.
The short version
- New South Wales Director of Public Prosecutions Sally Dowling SC testified that she discussed potential candidates with Attorney General Michael Daley before he appointed Noel Hutley SC to review findings against her office.
- A parliamentary committee previously found that Dowling gave false evidence about a media pitch, but Hutley's independent review concluded there was no positive basis for that finding.
- Dowling acknowledged knowing Hutley socially and professionally for nearly 30 years and endorsing his 2015 Bar Council candidacy, but insisted there was no conflict of interest.
Key facts
- Sally Dowling SC testified at budget estimates that she and NSW Attorney General Michael Daley discussed a list of 8 to 12 barristers before Daley selected Noel Hutley SC for an independent review.[The Guardian]
- A state parliamentary committee voted 4-3 to find that Dowling gave false evidence regarding a story pitched to radio station 2GB, a finding both Dowling and Daley rejected.[The Guardian]
- Hutley's review concluded there was no positive basis to find that Dowling gave false evidence.[The Guardian]
- Dowling stated she has known Hutley since 1997 professionally and socially, and was one of 27 barristers who signed a support letter for his 2015 NSW Bar Council candidacy.[The Guardian]
- Daley rejected suggestions that Dowling and Hutley were friends and stated he had full confidence in Dowling.[The Guardian]