Bishop to stay in parliament, calls for 'significant' spending on Pacific aid

Former foreign minister Julie Bishop says she is staying in parliament and has not ruled out vying for the Liberal leadership again in the future.

For more than 10 years Julie Bishop was the Liberal Party's second in command. (AAP) Source: AAP

Former foreign minister Julie Bishop says she will remain in parliament as a backbencher, despite her failed leadership bid.

"I'm optimistic about my future, whatever it may hold," Ms Bishop told reporters. 

 

READ MORE

'Our finest foreign minister': End of an era as Julie Bishop leaves cabinet

 

Ms Bishop, 62, only received 11 votes in the spill that was eventually won by Scott Morrison, but she said she was comfortable with her decisions. 

"I had to make a number of what some might say were life-changing decisions without giving them my usual due regard for the consequences."

View image on Twitter

There was speculation she would resign at the next election and was being considered for the position of the next Governor-General.

But Ms Bishop said she would continue to represent her constituents. 

Outgoing Foreign Minister Julie Bishop arrives to address questions about her future.

AAP

 

Asked whether she would consider returning to cabinet after the next election or even another tilt at the leadership, Ms Bishop said it was too early to say. 

"I will certainly have plenty of time to consider my options and reflect on what has been an extraordinary time."

Investment needed in Pacific

Ms Bishop gave some parting thoughts on foreign policy, calling for significant spending on development in the Pacific.

The government boosted the proportion of the aid budget spent in the region in the 2018 Budget, in a move seen as a counter to rising Chinese influence in the region.