Coalition reunification talks have stalled after a meeting between Liberal leader Sussan Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud failed to deliver a breakthrough.
The two leaders met on Monday night, with both sides describing the discussion as constructive, but no agreement was reached on resolving the split between the Liberal and National parties.
A key sticking point remains the Nationals’ demand that three frontbenchers who resigned after crossing the floor on the hate speech bill be reinstated. Those MPs are Bridget McKenzie, Ross Cadell and Susan McDonald.
The Liberals are resisting the move, arguing the resignations followed a breach of cabinet solidarity.
Speaking on RN Breakfast, Nationals senator Darren Chester said it would not be realistic for the Liberal party to dictate who the Nationals choose for their frontbench if the Coalition were to reunite.
Chester also said the Coalition split was unnecessary, suggesting the situation escalated when it could have been de-escalated.
