Former Boss Testifies Against Ministers
Brittany Higgins’ former boss revealed that she faced pressure from two federal ministers to report the incident to the police before Higgins decided to file her own complaint. Fiona Brown, who worked in Parliament House at the time of the alleged rape, testified about her meetings with Higgins after a security incident involving Bruce Lehrmann.
Ministers’ Concerns
After the incident, Senator Linda Reynolds and then-special minister of state Alex Hawke insisted that Brown notify the police about what had happened. However, Brown believed that this was just a way for the ministers to protect themselves. She argued that it should be Higgins’ personal choice whether to file a formal complaint.
No Cover-Up
Brown denied claims of a cover-up and stated that there was no political motive behind the response to the incident. She emphasized that the police and relevant departments were consulted, and there was no attempt to suppress Higgins’ allegation.
Allegations and Denials
Higgins claims that she was sexually assaulted by Lehrmann while she was intoxicated on Senator Reynolds’ couch. However, Lehrmann denies the allegations and argues that an interview on The Project in February 2021 damaged his reputation.
Expert Testimony
An expert lip reader from the UK reviewed CCTV footage of Higgins, Lehrmann, and other parliamentary staff at a bar in Canberra. The footage suggested that Lehrmann had been encouraging Higgins to drink alcohol that night.
Upcoming Trial
The trial will resume on Thursday for closing submissions. Lehrmann is facing charges related to the alleged assault on Higgins, as well as separate charges for allegedly assaulting another woman in Toowoomba. He has not yet entered a plea, but his lawyers have indicated that he denies the allegations.
