Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has condemned the slimmed down, part-virtual COVID parliament as living “in a half life” and compromising democratic rights.
The Nationals face the “wicked problem” of how to subvert the uncertain fortnight behind them, with the possibility of further leadership spills constantly looming.
The Nationals would do well to remember they have been able to wield considerable influence in Australian politics, thanks in large part to stable leadership maintaining harmony in the Coalition.
Addressing Tuesday’s Coalition party room, Morrison called for unity, reminding members they were not there as a team, and declaring the government had a “contract” with the Australian people.
Michael McCormack moves on from his near-death experience
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On this podcast, the Nationals leader defends his new frontbench line up against criticism it's short on women, mounts a strong pitch in favour of coal, and rejects claims that he's a weak leader.
The Nationals’ meltdown has been triggered by the forced resignation of Bridget McKenzie, and while only a new deputy needed to be elected, Joyce has seized the opportunity to make his leadership run.
Natale’s shock resignation comes as former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce announced he would challenge Nationals leader Michael McCormack if there was a move for a leadership spill on Tuesday.
Parliament has now finished its sitting fortnight. Michelle Grattan discusses the key issues from it, including Labor’s approach to passing legislation given its weaker position in the Senate.
The controversy over the water purchase is based on an old story; the election has enabled it to be resurrected for a powerful fresh spin around the political circuit.
Some from the Queensland LNP, including Matt Canavan, and Barnaby Joyce, are screaming for Environment Minister Melissa Price to act; southern Liberals are praying she doesn’t.
One of the Nationals’ key KPIs for McCormack has been that he must successfully pressure Morrison for the government to underwrite coal-fired generation.
Barnaby Joyce on facing the drought and rural women
Some in the Nationals would like Barnaby Joyce back in the leadership before the election. Joyce says if the leadership were offered, he would be up for it - though he insists he is not canvassing.
There’s a fine line between being out and about and canvassing. Just being visible is all that’s needed at this stage of a bid. And Joyce doesn’t hide his ambitions for a return.