Nationals leader David Littleproud has confirmed he has received a written offer from the Liberal party as negotiations continue over resetting the Coalition.
The offer, put forward by Liberal leader Sussan Ley, includes a proposal that Nationals MPs who defy shadow cabinet decisions would be forced onto the backbench for six months.
Littleproud said the Nationals would not rush their response and would take time to examine the detail of the proposal.
“The Nationals are united in our endeavours to reset the Coalition, but we won’t be providing updates on any negotiations through the media,” he said.
“The negotiations are ongoing and we will always be constructive and act in good faith.”
Littleproud said it was critical the party took the time to “get the settings right” before making any decision.
The statement signals the standoff between the Coalition partners is far from resolved, despite attempts to broker a peace deal.