Former High Court justice Virginia Bell to lead inquiry into Morrison’s secret appointments

“The terms of reference also require the inquiry to examine and report on practices and processes applying to ministerial appointments, including the public disclosure of these appointments,” he said.

“The inquiry will make recommendations to the government on any changes which could provide greater transparency and accountability to ensure that this can never happen again, and to ensure that we have a system of government in this country that is transparent, where there are checks and balances, and where there is accountability.”

Asked whether the inquiry would have the power to compel Morrison to give evidence, Albanese said he would “find it extraordinary if anyone refused to talk to a former High Court judge”.

“There will be the opportunity for public submissions and Virginia Bell will ask to speak to people who were involved or who had knowledge at the time,” he said.

“We chose not to go down the road of a royal commission. We think this gets the balance right.”

Albanese said members of the public service would be required to give evidence, but added “I don’t think it will require compulsion”.

“But if it was the case that Virginia Bell felt like she was not getting the co-operation that was required, then I’m certain that other measures could be considered.”

Albanese said the reporting date of November 25 was chosen because it preceded a sitting week – the final sitting week of the year – allowing for any legislative changes recommended by Bell to be considered by parliament that week.