NSW Premier Mike Baird is urging two suspended Liberal MPs to consider their future in politics but has refused to back calls for their sacking.
Newcastle MP Tim Owen on Tuesday morning admitted to lying to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) about what he did with $10,000 in cash he received from a property developer.
Charlestown MP Andrew Cornwell told the corruption watchdog last week he had received a bribe from another property developer.
"The people of the Hunter and the people of NSW have been betrayed," Mr Baird told reporters in Sydney on Tuesday.
"I say to the members, it is time they considered their positions (as members of parliament)."
Both men have stood aside from the Liberal Party and will quit politics at the March election.
But there are calls for Mr Baird to force the men to leave parliament immediately with Greens MP Jamie Parker planning to introduce a motion to throw Dr Cornwell out of parliament later on Tuesday.
Mr Baird has refused to support the motion and says it is ultimately for Mr Owen and Dr Cornwell to decide on their future.
"This is a matter that goes to the individuals," he said.
"They are not a member of the Liberal Party."
The premier said he did not want parliament to be used for "political theatre or stunts".
"Give me a formal finding or a formal charge, then parliament can consider that," he said.
"But until that is there, we're not going to participate (in moves to expel them)."
Share
