FEDERAL Member for Mallee Andrew Broad has labelled the behaviour of Liberal Party MPs this week as “less than inspiring”, but urged voters not to give up on democracy.
Mr Broad said while he understands the electorate’s frustration, democracy wasn’t dead.
“Don’t give up on democracy, because it has and will continue to deliver freedom and prosperity and an amazing standard of living,” he said.
Scott Morrison emerged from a party room meeting as the new leader of the Liberal Party this morning, having beaten former Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton and Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop in a contest for the top job.
Mr Morrison drew 45 votes in the party room ballot, compared to Mr Dutton’s 40.
Federal parliament had been consumed by the battle for party leader since Tuesday when Mr Dutton first contested Malcolm Turnbull for the job. If he is able to successfully renegotiate a coalition agreement with the Nationals Party, Mr Morrison will become Australia’s 30th Prime Minister.
Mr Turnbull fronted media following the vote, telling reports the “insurgents were not rewarded by electing Mr Dutton”.
With Mr Turnbull ousted, Mr Morrison would become the sixth prime minister of Australia in 11 years, with John Howard the last to serve a full term.
More in Monday’s The Guardian.
