Fed: Joe Hockey expected to emerge as Liberal leader

AAP General News (Australia)
12-01-2009
Fed: Joe Hockey expected to emerge as Liberal leader

JOE HOCKEY is expected to emerge as the new leader of the federal Liberal Party this morning.

He'll take on MALCOLM TURNBULL and TONY ABBOTT in a party room meeting that will bring
to a head .. the most tumultuous week in Liberal politics in recent memory.

It's been a damaging week for the Liberals .. who are deeply divided over the deal
done with the government to get its emissions trading scheme through parliament this week.

Mr TURNBULL says he's the only candidate with a clear .. consistent position on climate
change .. and he insists he can win a second bid to unseat him.

Mr HOCKEY's promising a free conscience vote on the ETS should he win today's contest
.. while Mr ABBOTT wants a Senate vote on the legislation delayed until next year .. or
rejected outright.

AAP RTV so/jmt

KEYWORD: LIBERALS (CANBERRA)

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