WA: Widespread support for Barnett: MP

AAP General News (Australia)
08-05-2008
WA: Widespread support for Barnett: MP

PERTH, Aug 5 AAP - There's an "almost universal" view in the West Australian Liberal
Party that Colin Barnett will be elected unopposed as leader, a state Liberal MP says.

Troy Buswell yesterday quit the job after six months, throwing the Liberals into turmoil.

Capel MP Steve Thomas today said those with leadership aspirations, such as himself,
should put them aside for the sake of the party.

"The time is here for us to do our jobs and have Colin Barnett in the leadership,"

Mr Thomas said today.

"It should be done even without nominations.

"It is too late at this stage to try and elect somebody new."

Mr Thomas said while Mr Barnett had already announced his retirement, he was tried
and tested and popular with the electorate.

Mr Barnett, a former opposition leader and resources and energy minister, has held
the Liberal blue ribbon seat of Cottesloe for 18 years.

He's yet to say whether he wants the job which would make him the opposition's fifth
leader in less than four years. Reports say he could make an announcement today.

Premier Alan Carpenter can call a state election from now up until May 2 next year.

AAP jp/maur/nf/de

KEYWORD: BARNETT

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