Victorian Premier Ben Carroll was called by police on Tuesday night after he was reported to have left a petrol station without settling his bill. The incident came to light when officers contacted the premier’s office, prompting a quick response from the government’s top executive.
Carroll had already met with the state’s police commissioner earlier that morning, so he was not difficult to locate. According to police reports, the premier admitted that he had simply forgotten to pay for his fuel and that he had paid the amount immediately once the matter was brought to his attention.
In a statement released by the premier’s office, Carroll thanked the staff at the petrol station for their “understanding” and said he was “grateful for the team at the servo for their understanding.” He confirmed that the outstanding amount had been settled in full.
The incident has prompted a brief police inquiry into the circumstances, but no further action has been announced. The Premier’s office has not indicated whether any disciplinary measures will be taken.
Carroll’s quick acknowledgement and payment of the bill have been described by some as a reminder that public officials are subject to the same everyday rules as other citizens.
<small>Source: The Guardian — read the original story there.</small>
