Prime Minister responds to explosive phone call claim from Grace Tame

The Prime Minister’s office says Scott Morrison had nothing to do with a “threatening” phone call made to Grace Tame last year and “would not authorise such actions” after the former Australian of the Year made an explosive claim during a National Press Club Speech alongside former Liberal party staffer Brittany Higgins.

Ms Tame said on Wednesday the phone call came from a “senior member of a government-funded organisation” in August last year but did not name the person, or organisation.

She said she was asked not to criticise Mr Morrison in the lead-up to the election, given her ‘influence’ on the public.

The Liberal Party says it will investigate the claim.

The Prime Minister’s Office released a statement shortly after Ms Tame’s speech, stating it was the first time they’d been made aware of the allegation.

“The PM has not and would not authorise such actions and at all times has sought to treat Ms Tame with dignity and respect,” the spokesperson said.

“Ms Tame should always be free to speak her mind and conduct herself as she chooses. The PM has made no criticism of her statements or actions.”

(Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)