Independent inquiry to be held into handling of Brittany Higgins’ allegations against Bruce Lehrmann

ACT chief minister and attorney general have announced inquiry following claims police pressured director of public prosecutions Shane Drumgold SC not to pursue the Lehrmann case

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

The ACT government has launched an inquiry into the case of Bruce Lehrmann after explosive allegations the police aligned" with the defence in his trial for the alleged rape of Brittany Higgins.

The Australian Capital Territory chief minister, Andrew Barr, and the attorney general, Shane Rattenbury, announced the probe on Wednesday, three weeks after prosecutors said they would not pursue a retrial as it would pose an unacceptable risk" to Higgins' health.

Sign up for Guardian Australia's free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup