Newman's ministers back him for Ashgrove

Queensland ministers say they aren't worried about Premier Campbell Newman's former rival recontesting the seat she lost to him at the state election.

Campbell Newman

Queensland ministers have brushed off any threat posed by Premier Campbell Newman's old rival. (AAP)

Queensland government ministers have brushed off any threat posed by Premier Campbell Newman's old rival standing again in his inner-Brisbane seat.

Former environment minister Kate Jones is yet to confirm she will nominate for the seat of Ashgrove, but speculation is rife she will be on the ballot for Labor in 2015.

But Liberal National ministers say the premier has nothing to worry about, despite a poll last week showing Ms Jones leads the premier in terms of primary support.

"I don't think we've got any need to worry at all," Housing Minister Tim Mander said.

"As long as Labor keeps bringing back recycled people, the same old people that caused the problems in the first place, the premier has no issues at all."

Energy Minister Mark McArdle added: "He will take any challenge seriously.

"He's a man who is driven to achieve what he can for Ashgrove and right across the state."

Mr Newman has repeatedly said he will not contest any other seat at the next election.

Comment is being sought from Queensland Labor and Ms Jones.

Last week, a ReachTel poll of 690 Ashgrove voters, commissioned by the Together union, put primary support for Mr Newman at 36.6 per cent, compared with 51.1 per cent for Ms Jones.


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