Wednesday 1st of May 2024
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from casualty .....

from casualty .....

Today’s Liberal leadership ballot could launch the party into war rather than peace, with Tony Abbott's withdrawal from the contest including a pledge of loyalty - and a threat of a later challenge to the new leader. 

"I'm certainly not ruling out a further tilt at the leadership," Mr Abbott said as he admitted his close association with John Howard was a reason he lacked the support of his colleagues. 

Mr Abbott issued his threat to the remaining candidates, Brendan Nelson and Malcolm Turnbull, as the prime minister-elect, Kevin Rudd, put the final touches on the ministry he will announce today. 

Vow From Abbott Traps Liberals In A War Zone

'they've' chosen .....

Brendan Nelson has defeated Malcolm Turnbull in a knife-edge vote for the Liberal leadership, while Julie Bishop will be deputy. 

Peter Costello has announced that Dr Nelson, the outgoing defence minister, beat Mr Turnbull by 45 votes to 42 in a party room meeting. 

"The Liberal parliamentary party has elected Julie Bishop as the new deputy leader." 

Mr Costello said it was a positive party room meeting and the election outcome was discussed briefly. 

"Brendan congratulated his opponents, as did Julie," he said. 

Despite his loss, Mr Turnbull had a large smile on his face as he walked down the corridor opf Parliament House. 

"I guess one is always disappointed but I am really delighted that the party has made a decision. "We've got a great team now and we'll win in 2010." 

Mr Turnbull denied he would challenge for the leadership soon. 

"They've chosen a leader and a deputy leader and they have my absolute support," he said. 

Nelson Wins Liberal Leadership 

yep, absolute, rock-solid, core unity here ….. 

watch your back Bandit.