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Slipper concedes defeat in Fisher

Former Speaker Peter Slipper says he is out of the race to retain his Queensland seat of Fisher.

Former Speaker Peter Slipper
Former Speaker Peter Slipper has conceded defeat in the Sunshine Coast seat of Fisher. (AAP)

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Source: AAP


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Former Speaker Peter Slipper has conceded defeat in the Sunshine Coast seat of Fisher.

"It is with profound sadness I concede defeat in the electorate of Fisher. Although at the present time it is not certain who has won the seat, it is clear that there was nationally a strong desire for a change of government," he said in a statement.

"It has been a great privilege to represent the people of Fisher in its many manifestations after redistributions for more than 23 years and I thank them for their support."

Former Howard government minister Mal Brough is expected to win the seat, ending what's been one of the most bitter and personal feuds in federal politics.

The pair have been at war following a sexual harassment suit former staffer James Ashby launched against Mr Slipper last year.

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Mr Slipper has accused Mr Brough of orchestrating the lawsuit for political purposes, which Mr Brough has denied.

Federal Court judge Steven Rares ruled in December that Mr Ashby had "pursued a political attack" against his former boss "in combination" with others, including Mr Brough.

In his concession statement, Mr Slipper said it had been the toughest campaign for him because of the "vilification and constant attack to which my family and I have been subjected over the last 18 months".

"I am lucky to have had so many people supporting me," he said, and thanked his staff, friends, wife and family.

"My wife Inge who has supported me unconditionally during a very challenging period deserves special mention."

The Liberal turned independent said he believed he'd done his best to serve his electorate.

With 43 per cent of the vote counted, Mr Slipper has managed just 1.46 per cent of the primary vote.


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