Qld:DPP finds evidence to justify Fingleton charge =-2

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Qld:DPP finds evidence to justify Fingleton charge =-2

Attorney-General Rod Welford said Ms Fingleton would not resign and would remain suspendedon full pay.

He called on the media and opposition to allow the chief magistrate the presumption of innocence.

"Under the separation of powers whether she resigns from her position of chief magistrateis ultimately a matter for her," Mr Welford said.

He said he had spoken to Ms Fingleton who was distressed and very embarrassed.

"I think understandably the chief magistrate is greatly distressed that these chargesare proceeding," he said.

"She holds a very important office and it is a matter of deep embarrassment to herpersonally, and I suspect to the court as a whole, that the head of that court is thesubject of these charges."

But Mr Welford reassured the Queensland public that they could continue to have confidencein the judiciary and the matter would be dealt with properly and according to law.

He said the crisis had exposed weaknesses in Ms Fingleton's decision-making which wasa matter of concern for him.

AAP nk/jak/ldj/br

KEYWORD: FINGLETON LEAD 2 BRISBANE (REOPENS)