WA Attorney General Michael Mischin has announced the appointment of Neil Douglas as an acting commissioner of the Corruption and Crime Commission (CCC).


Mr Mischin said Mr Douglas had more than 30 years’ experience practising public law and would be an invaluable acting commissioner.


“Mr Douglas is an outstanding lawyer who has extensive experience in criminal and public law, acting for and against local, State and Federal Government departments, agencies and employees,” Mr Mischin said.


“A significant part of his practice has involved the conduct of investigations and reports in the public sector, including suspected criminality, harassment, bullying, misconduct, conflicts of interest and employment contracts.


“Mr Douglas has also been involved in conducting a number of high profile inquiries, including the 2000-01 statutory inquiry into the provision of obstetric and gynaecological services at King Edward Memorial Hospital, and the 14-month public inquiry into the City of Cockburn in 1999, which led to the council’s dismissal.


The Attorney General said the acting commissioner could take over and act as commissioner if and when the CCC commissioner vacates the office; becomes incapable; is unable to handle any particular case (for example, due to an actual or potential conflict of interest); or, leaves the State.