Minister announces decision of City of Cockburn Mayor to stand down

Local Government Minister John Castrilli has welcomed the decision of Stephen Lee, City of Cockburn Mayor, to stand down from all positions, including the Mayoralty from Wednesday, October 8, 2008.

"In a letter to me today, Mr Lee has agreed to lodge a complaint immediately with the Parliamentary Inspector to request a review of the CCC report that concluded findings of misconduct by him as an elected member of the City of Cockburn," Mr Castrilli said.

"Mr Lee's decision to stand down and stand aside as Mayor allows him to pursue his rights of 'natural justice'.

"Importantly, the concerned Cockburn community can be assured that Mr Lee's hands have been effectively removed from the levers of power pending any investigation by the Parliamentary Inspector.

"Stephen Lee has advised me in writing that if the Parliamentary Inspector validates the findings of the CCC report or determines that no further report or review is required, that he will resign as Mayor immediately."

The Minister said no further action would be taken on the matter while Mr Lee's request for a review was considered by the Parliamentary Inspector.