#MeToo movement ‘seemingly affected’ Bruce Lehrmann investigation, inquiry hears

Former Liberal party staffer Bruce Lehrmann outside court in Canberra in October. An inquiry is examining the ACT’s handling of his case. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAP

The #MeToo movement and “intense public discussions” about low rates of convictions “seemingly affected” decisions made to investigate and prosecute Bruce Lehrmann for the alleged sexual assault of Brittany Higgins, an inquiry has heard.

Erin Longbottom, counsel assisting the inquiry into the Australian Capital Territory criminal justice system’s handling of the case, made that submission on Monday morning at the inquiry’s first hearing.