Christopher Pyne is backtracking on comments that have fuelled doubts about Tony Abbott's future as prime minister.
The education minister has labelled as an "unfortunate misinterpretation" remarks he made earlier on Friday that he could not rule out a leadership spill on Tuesday.
Asked if he believed Mr Abbott had the numbers, Mr Pyne told the Nine Network: "That is a very inexact science, but I hope he does, yes."
The remarks have led to heightened speculation of a spill motion when the Liberals hold their first party room meeting of the parliamentary year.
Mr Pyne later revealed he may have been tired at the time of his earlier remarks, telling Sky News he was not expecting a spill motion next week.
"Maybe people have misinterpreted my position," he said.
"I thought those remarks were entirely unremarkable."
Mr Pyne said his position had not changed from earlier in the week and he was not angling for a spill.
"Obviously I can't know what is in the minds of my colleagues.
"I don't believe there should be a spill motion, I don't believe Tony Abbott should be replaced as leader of the Liberal party."
Mr Pyne said potential leadership contenders Malcolm Turnbull and Julie Bishop could not have been more loyal in their support of Mr Abbott.
"And they remain so," he said.
Defence Minister Kevin Andrews came out in defence of his cabinet colleague, saying Mr Pyne's words were being twisted.
But he, too, could not rule out a spill, saying he too hoped - and believed - Mr Abbott would remain prime minister next week.
"I can't rule it out because nobody can rule it in or out," he told ABC radio in Melbourne.
"Even if there was one it would not succeed."
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