Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has denied reports her office asked for references to China be removed from a WA Liberal policy motion calling for greater defence assets in the state.
The motion, calling for more assets to be located in the state in preparation of a possible heightened Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, was widened to remove a focus on China after Ms Bishop's office intervened due to concerns it would anger Beijing, The West Australian reported on Friday.
Ms Bishop denied the claim, saying her office had simply suggested the policy's wording be broadened.
"Not at all ... One of my adviser's suggested wording that would enhance the motion and make it more relevant," she said in Brisbane on Friday.
"I really wouldn't get too excited about it, my office provides advice to people all the time and it's up to those who receive it whether they take it."
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