Sussan Ley says Richard Marles should resign if he failed to provide safe workplace for chief of staff

The deputy opposition leader, Sussan Ley, says Richard Marles should resign if he has failed to provide a safe and respectful workplace as required under the ministerial code of conduct.Ley said on Friday that allegations from the deputy prime minister’s chief of staff, Jo Tarnawksy, were “extremely serious” and expressed concern for her welfare.Guardian Australia reported on Thursday that Tarnawsky alleges her boss has not spoken to her in five months and that she has been barred from her office without 24 hours’ notice, after she raised concerns about other staff and he responded by effectively sacking her in a phone call.Through a spokesperson, Marles said that “a number of the assertions and recollections are contested”.“Ms Tarnawsky remains a member of staff. Ms Tarnawsky has been treated with respect and courtesy. At all times, the wellbeing of staff, including Ms Tarnawsky, has been front of mind.”In parliament on Thursday, Marles praised her as “a…