Female Liberal MP saved from challenge

Intervention from the prime minister and others has spared NSW MP Ann Sudmalis.

Embattled Liberal MP Ann Sudmalis is set to be re-endorsed for her NSW federal seat of Gilmore after intervention from Malcolm Turnbull.

Ms Sudmalis was facing a preselection battle, which added to already intense pressure on the Liberal Party over its lack of support for women in parliament.

However, Fairfax Media has reported contenders pulled out after the prime minister and other senior Liberals phoned local party members urging them to give Ms Sudmalis a clear run.