Where does Sophie stand with Turnbull

Source: Wangaratta Chronicle - 17.09.08

But Sophie remains tight-lipped on her support, now focused on delivering policies

Written by NATALIE KOTSIOS.

SOPHIE Mirabella (MHR, Indi) would not be drawn into revealing who she supported in yesterday’s party room vote that saw Malcolm Turnbull elected as leader of the Liberal Party.

Mr Turnbull was elected, 45-41, after former leader Brendan Nelson unexpectedly called a leadership spill on Monday.

Speaking upon her return to Wangaratta from Canberra yesterday afternoon, Mrs Mirabella was tight-lipped but diplomatic, choosing not to answer questions as to which way she voted except to say she was looking forward to working with Mr Turnbull.

"I have a very good relationship with Brendan Nelson, and he has had a special connection to the area," she said.

"Likewise, I have a very good relationship with Malcolm Turnbull and he too has been a regular visitor to our area.

"He is very concerned about water and water security, and we will work together to find solutions to our water crisis."

The change in leadership came after another tumultuous week for the Liberals, particularly following the release of Peter Costello’s memoirs and further speculation that he would stand for the leadership.

The close vote would also suggest the party remains divided, despite an outward front of unity.

Mrs Mirabella, however, declined to detail the sentiment in the party room at present, or whether the sudden leadership spill had come as a surprise.

"I’m not going to comment on the process - it was called, there was a vote..." she said.

"In politics, you wake up expecting the unexpected - nothing surprises me anymore."

Mrs Mirabella said she would be working closely with other local MPs and Mr Turnbull to see the North East was well-represented in the Liberal Party’s policies.

"It is a call to give the Australian people an alternative government, especially in these times of extreme economic uncertainty," she said.