Minister dumped for 'abusing staffer'

'Inappropriate': Tony Stewart

Suspended New South Wales minister Tony Stewart will be returned to the backbenches for inappropriate behaviour.

The State Government has tabled a report by Chris Ronalds SC, who was appointed to investigate claims Mr Stewart had abused staffer Tina Sanger at a charity function and placed his hand on her leg to prevent her from leaving.

Ms Ronalds says the actions were entirely inappropriate and she does not believe Mr Stewart's denials.

Premier Nathan Rees had vowed to sack the recently-appointed small business and assistant health minister if it was proven that Mr Stewart abused his staffer and lied to him about it.

In a statement, Mr Rees says he will recommend to the Lieutenant-Governor that Mr Stewart be removed from his frontbench portfolios.

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