williamson charged? - is thomson next?, page-55

Windsor supports return of cleared Slipper


MP Tony Windsor says Peter Slipper (pic) should return to the Speaker's chair if cleared. Source: AAP

INDEPENDENT MP Tony Windsor supports Peter Slipper's return to the Speaker's chair if he is cleared of allegations of sexual harassment and misuse of commonwealth Cabcharges.

Mr Slipper returns to court on Thursday for the continuation of harassment proceedings brought by his former staffer James Ashby.

The pair took part in nearly nine hours of mediation on Wednesday but failed to reach a settlement.

The Speaker, who has stood aside while the matters are heard, is also awaiting a decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions over allegations he misused Cabcharges supplied by the commonwealth.

Mr Windsor said on Thursday if Mr Slipper was cleared of both matters there should be no obstacle to him resuming his full role.

"I wouldn't see an issue with him being able to return to the chair if in fact all those things happened," Mr Windsor told ABC radio.

If it comes to a vote in parliament as to who resumes the chair, the independent "couldn't see how I would object to it".
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/breaking-news/windsor-supports-return-of-cleared-slipper/story-fn3dxiwe-1226487849998