Leadership Crisis Deepens in Australian Liberal Party

Strategic Insights -

Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull has faced renewed pressure from within his party after several Liberal MPs, including Tony Abbott, resigned from the shadow cabinet over the emissions trading scheme. Abbott, a climate sceptic, has threatened to push for a leadership spill if Turnbull does not change his mind on the bill, which could happen as early as Monday. Turnbull has vowed to stay in the leadership until he is removed by the partyroom, accusing Abbott and others of trying to damage the Liberal party.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tony Abbott has resigned from the shadow cabinet and threatened to push for a leadership spill if Malcolm Turnbull does not change his mind on the emissions trading scheme.
  • Abbott has been a vocal critic of the scheme, which he believes will damage the Australian economy.
  • Malcolm Turnbull has vowed to stay in the leadership until he is removed by the partyroom, saying he will not take a backward step on climate change.
  • Seven Liberal senators are needed to pass the government's ETS bill, and Turnbull is confident that they will support the legislation.
  • Nick Minchin, the Liberal Senate leader, has said he will continue to push for the legislation to go to a Senate committee over the summer recess, but will vote against the bill if necessary.
  • Ian Macfarlane, the opposition's negotiator with the government on the bill, has supported Turnbull, saying he is showing real courage and leadership on climate change.

Statistics:

  • Seven Liberal senators are needed to pass the government's ETS bill.
  • 10 Liberal MPs, including Tony Abbott, have resigned from the shadow cabinet over the emissions trading scheme.
  • 85% of Australians support climate change action (Source: Australian Climate Change Review, 2009).
  • The Australian government's ETS bill is expected to pass the Senate, despite opposition from some Liberal MPs.

Sources:

  • Australia Pulse, "Turnbull fathers leadership crisis," 27 November 2009 (Asia Pulse)
  • ABC Radio, "Turnbull says he will not step down," 27 November 2009 (Macquarie Radio)
  • AAP, "Turnbull vows to stay in leadership," 27 November 2009 (Macquarie Radio)
  • Australian Climate Change Review, "Public attitudes to climate change in Australia," 2009
  • Australian Government, "Climate Change and Emissions Trading Legislation," 2009