Top job is not on Gutwein to-do list

TREASURER Peter Gutwein has ruled out a tilt at premier if Speaker Sue Hickey votes against government legislation.

Mr Gutwein has hosed down suggestions he could be in line for the top job if the Government loses its majority in the Lower House.

Premier Will Hodgman pledged not to govern in minority during this year’s election campaign.

Mr Hodgman remains adamant the Government maintains its one-seat majority despite Ms Hickey’s elevation to the chair as Labor’s nomination.

Ms Hickey has said she remains a Liberal member and guaranteed the Government confidence and supply.

But the former Hobart lord mayor has not ruled out voting against the Government on contentious legislation.

Mr Gutwein said he would not be a contender should Mr Hodgman be forced to resign as Premier.

“No, look, I am very, very happy being the Treasurer,” he said.

Mr Gutwein dismissed suggestions the Government was in danger of losing its majority.

“Thirteen Liberals were elected, there’s a Liberal in the Speaker’s chair, we are getting on with the job of governing, it’s that simple,” he said.

The Treasurer denied government infighting, despite insider reports of a fiery clash between Ms Hickey and minister Elise Archer on the day of the vote for Speaker.

Mr Gutwein said he had not been involved in any exchanges with Ms Hickey.

“I haven’t spoken to Sue Hickey, I don’t think, apart from a quiet discussion when she was in the chair,” he said.

Mr Hodgman said this week he did not expect the situation to occur where the Speaker voted against Government legislation.