Peter Slipper (Fisher, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the member for Blair once again for his support—and I thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, for your silent support! Research shows that Queenslanders are more likely to vote for a unified opposition and are looking for an alternative to the disastrous Labor administration. Business groups have also indicated that they would provide greater support for a united, strong party with a clear message, alternative policies and a focus on achieving government. By contrast, the Queensland state coalition agreement is a coalition rather than a merger of the parties and still allows for divisive three-cornered contests.

The next question that people tend to ask is: how will the Liberal Party incorporate the National identity and what are the transition arrangements? It is envisaged that the Liberal Party would undertake constitutional reform agreed between the parties to ensure that rural membership and The Nationals’ regional constituency were fully represented in and enfranchised under the new partnership. The reforms would work to create state electorate councils in six regions—greater Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, North Queensland, Central Queensland and western Queensland, as identified in the coalition attaining government agreement. One vice-president would be elected by each region, and members would be empowered by the creation of SECs with provision for the convening of a party convention and regional policy forums in addition to an annual convention. Transition arrangements would have the National Party leader as leader of the combined party and the Liberal Party leader as deputy, and the shadow cabinet positions would remain unchanged, subject to performance criteria.

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