Coalition Reunites as Ley, Littleproud Secure New Agreement
Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud have announced a new agreement, reuniting the Coalition following a three-week split. During a press conference on Sunday, the leaders confirmed the deal, which reinstates former Nationals frontbenchers to the shadow cabinet after resignations over hate speech laws.
Reunion of the Coalition
Following a tumultuous period, Ley stated that the Coalition is focused on the future. “We are back in coalition. We are stronger. Differences have been resolved,” she emphasized. The leaders aim to prioritize the needs and aspirations of the Australian people moving forward.
Trust and Cooperation
When questioned about trust, both leaders assured their commitment to each other. Ley remarked, “Yes, 100 percent, I trust David and I value and respect the National Party.” Littleproud echoed this sentiment, affirming his confidence in the Liberal Party, stating, “I wouldn’t be standing here today if I didn’t trust Susan.”
Agreement Highlights
- Nationals frontbenchers will rejoin leadership meetings and shadow cabinet processes.
- An agreement was signed to uphold shadow cabinet solidarity.
- Shadow cabinet members must resign if they vote against the joint party position.
This new structure reinforces the joint authority of the Coalition over individual party decisions, aiming to prevent future conflicts like the one that led to the recent split.
Background of the Split
The Coalition’s discord arose when three Nationals frontbenchers—Ross Cadell, Bridget McKenzie, and Susan McDonald—voted against the Labor Party’s hate speech laws. Their resignations sparked widespread turmoil, prompting the entirety of the Nationals shadow cabinet to resign in protest, leading to the Coalition’s temporary collapse.
Looking ahead, Littleproud described the previous fallout as “disappointing,” emphasizing the importance of unity and direction for the Coalition. “When it matters, we’ve got to be able to say to the Australian people what we stand for,” he stated, acknowledging Ley’s leadership in finding a path forward.
This reunification occurs against a backdrop of significant political changes in Australia, with the minor-party One Nation gaining traction in recent polls.
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