The deputy leader of the Nationals, Kevin Hogan, says there is “will on both sides” to resolve the ongoing dispute between the Liberals and the Nationals following the Coalition split.
Speaking on ABC’s 7.30 program on Monday night, Hogan described talks between Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud as constructive and respectful, but said no agreement had been reached on reinstating three Nationals frontbenchers.
The Coalition split after Ley accepted the resignation of three Nationals senators who crossed the floor on Labor’s hate speech laws, prompting the remaining Nationals frontbenchers to resign in solidarity.
The Nationals want senators Bridget McKenzie, Susan McDonald and Ross Cadell reinstated as a condition of reuniting with the Liberals.
Hogan said resolving the issue was important but confirmed it was not settled during the meeting. He said it was unlikely the Coalition would reunite by Tuesday’s question time.
