MCVEIGH WAITS TO HEAR FROM NEW BOSS
Reshuffle likely as new PM sets in after chaos
THE country has a new prime minister and Groom MP John McVeigh a new boss.
Like his Canberra colleagues, the Regional Development, Territories and Local Government Minister will be keeping a close eye on a possible Cabinet reshuffle that could see him moved from the front bench.
As speculation grows the position will become a bargaining chip for the National Party to appease regional voters, Dr McVeigh congratulated new Prime Minister Scott Morrison after supporting Peter Dutton.
JOHN McVeigh has doubled down on his commitment to Groom as he eyes a possible Cabinet reshuffle in the wake of a tumultuous week in Canberra.
Moving quickly to congratulate new Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who yesterday snared the Liberal leadership from initial challenger Peter Dutton, Dr McVeigh said the party vote had “resolved the uncertainty”.
“I congratulate my colleague Scott Morrison - Australia’s next prime minister,” the Regional Development, Territories and Local Government Minister said yesterday in a brief statement.
“It is now time to get on with the job.”
Dr McVeigh signed the petition handed to former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull calling for a party room vote yesterday.
However, it remained unclear which of the leadership contenders the Groom MP supported although it was reported he backed Mr Dutton.
Speculation is now growing whether Dr McVeigh will retain the ministerial position which is likely to be determined in coming days as Mr Morrison and new deputy Liberal leader Josh Frydenberg review the Cabinet.
Political pundits yesterday
‘‘ IT IS NOW TIME TO GET ON WITH THE JOB. GROOM MP JOHN MCVEIGH
speculated the National Party was eyeing off the Regional Development, Territories and Local Government portfolio as the Federal Government struggles to support drought stricken farmers and shore up the Coalition’s regional support base.
However, Dr McVeigh has reaffirmed his commitment to the position and the Groom electorate.
“I have worked closely with Mr Morrison on the Coalition Government’s drought package, regional funding and infrastructure right here in Groom,” he said.
“I look forward to continuing our strong working relationship.
“I remain a fierce advocate for our Groom community.”
Mr Morrison was sworn in as prime minister in Canberra yesterday afternoon.
It closed a week of chaos in the nation’s capital with two leadership challenges against former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull.
Dr McVeigh, elevated to Cabinet in December last year, had described Mr Turnbull’s leadership as “untenable” and visited his office twice before yesterday’s spill.