Tasmania’s Police Association has questioned the timing and motives of an independent inquiry into the Acting Police Commissioner.

The Premier, David Bartlett, yesterday announced code of conduct allegations against Darren Hine would be investigated by retired Federal Court Justice Peter Heerey QC.

The complaints have been made by retired Police Commissioner Richard McCreadie.

They relate to the failed prosecution of former Commissioner Jack Johnston and to the Premier’s aborted attempt to appoint Mr McCreadie as Acting Commissioner while the case was dealt with.

Mr Hine is accused of misleading the Premier about possible charges against Mr McCreadie at the time he was to be appointed Acting Commissioner.

In a statement, Mr Hine said he does not believe he has acted inappropriately but accepts the need for an investigation.

He said he acted on legal advice at all times.

“Whilst I do not believe I have acted in any way inappropriately in relation to these matters, I accept it is appropriate they be fully investigated,” he said.

The Police Association’s President Randolph Wierenga says the allegations are not new and members are surprised the inquiry has been called now.

“We’re concerned about the politicisation of the office of the Commissioner,” he said.

Mr Johnston was suspended for almost 18 months while code of conduct complaints against him were investigated and resigned in February in exchange for the dropping of the complaints.

A new Commissioner will not be chosen until the inquiry is completed.

Mr Hine will continue to act in the role during the inquiry into the complaints.