Turnbull avoids leadership spill

Malcolm Turnbull angered opponents of the ETS by announcing the party supported a deal with the government (AAP)

Malcolm Turnbull has survived threats of a leadership spill, after angering opponents of an ETS by declaring a unilateral victory in the debate.

"We have agreed a deal," the opposition leader announced late on Tuesday, at the end of a long day of talks with members of the coalition party room. 

"This demonstrates our genuine and sincere commmitment to action on climate change.

"The party room is committed. I am the leader, I've made the call."

Turnbull provoked fury among some sections of the opposition after he claimed majority support for an emissions trading scheme deal with the government.

Leadership rumours

There were heated discussions over a possible a challenge to his leadership as a result of the declaration, which came after hours of debate on an ETS deal with the government.

And while the immediate threat appeared to be quashed, there are reports a spill may go ahead on Thursday morning.

One Liberal source said Turnbull had accepted the deal was supported, even though the number of speakers at a coalition party room meeting were 46 against, to 33 in favour.

Turnbull is believed to have made the initial call while senators were absent, taking part in a division in the Senate chamber.

There followed an hour of confusion, as rumours of an imminent leadership spill swirled around Parliament House.

Liberal party 'in uproar'

"The party is in uproar," one Liberal said.

Firebrand Liberal MP Wilson Tuckey, who had threatened to move a spill motion earlier in the debate on Tuesday, insisted: "He'll be lucky to survive the night."

Tuckey labelled it a "spit the dummy" performance and said he felt for coalition members who had virtually been told they did not count.

However, Turnbull shrugged off the apparent threat,  insisting "I'm not interested in Wilson Tuckey... whatever he's been saying."

Former Howard government minister Kevin Andrews said the majority of the party room had been against the climate deal and wanted it deferred but that Turnbull had read the numbers differently.

Andrews suggested there could yet be a spill in the coming days, reiterating that he could be a contender if that is what the party wants.


 

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Your Comments

24 Nov 2009 21:55 AEST

Bob

From: Adelaide

Best scientists and biggest rednecks?

I dont think the punters, Australias voters, want you out Mal. Your in-principle stand is right since the Libs campaigned at the last election on doing something about climate change. Australia doesn't want to have 'best scientists and biggest rednecks'. Well done mate

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24 Nov 2009 21:53 AEST

Ken

From: Sydney

TURNBULL'S TIME IS UP

NO ETS. NO COPENHAGEN TREATY. SACK TURNBULL

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