According to Austraila’sCourier Mail, the Crime and Misconduct Commission (CMC) has been called in to investigate claims that Sue Ford, principal adviser for Queensland Transport’s rail safety unit passed along information to her husband, Greg Ford, a senior member of Queensland Rail’s (QR) safety division, regarding dates and details of surprise stings.

The investigation follows accusations of a poor safety culture at QR, with a high-level report revealing minimal accident investigations despite one in five QR staff members sustaining injuries each year, the report said.

These latest allegations have led to an increased push for an independent inquiry into safety procedures at the State Government-owned corporation, according to the report.

“QR needs an independent inquiry into its safety practices to ensure management is acting appropriately,” said opposition transport spokeswoman Fiona Simpson. “It’s commuters who are suffering while QR and the Beattie-Bligh Government struggle to get their priorities right.”

Transport Minister John Mickel said he was informed of the claims on Tuesday and had referred them to the CMC. If the CMC refers the matter back to his department, Mickel said an independent person will then be appointed to investigate, the article said.