Danny Pearson confesses to Commonwealth Bank conflict

Liberal Party Victoria

Today in Parliament Danny Pearson has confirmed a serious conflict of interest relating to his Commonwealth Bank shares.

Under questioning, Minister Pearson admitted to approving the opening of three Victorian Government agency bank accounts with the Commonwealth Bank.

At the time of these decisions, Minister Pearson was a direct shareholder of up to $100,000 of Commonwealth Bank shares.

By approving these accounts, Minister Pearson has made a decision that directly benefits the company he holds shares in – a direct conflict of interest.

Minister Pearson has yet to explain his actions when the Victorian community deserves straight answers.

Shadow Minister for Finance, Jess Wilson, said that Minister Pearson has today admitted to a serious conflict of interest.

“Ministers should be acting in the interests of the community,” Ms Wilson said.

“It is entirely inappropriate for a Minister to be the solely responsible decision maker in matters that stand to benefit them financially.”

“Minister Pearson owes the Victorian community an explanation as to why, on multiple occasions, he approved government bank accounts to be opened with a bank he is a shareholder in.”

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