Joyce dismisses claim as ‘spurious’
Deputy PM’s allies claim he’s victim of ‘witch hunt’
DEPUTY Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has been accused of sexual misconduct by a friend of West Australia Nationals leader Mia Davies, who this week called for the embattled leader to resign.
Mr Joyce has strenuously denied the claim and is believed to be considering legal options as frantic Nationals yesterday called each other to find out what it could mean.
Highly-placed sources said that Mr Joyce can disprove the allegations but would not reveal details. It is understood Mr Joyce and the woman have different recollections of events.
It comes as Victorian Nationals MP Andrew Broad, who The Gold Coast Bulletin can reveal failed in a recent bid to become Nationals deputy leader, yesterday flagged calling a motion that Mr Joyce be sent to the backbench.
It has been seen by some as trying to bring on a spill by stealth and will not get up because Monday’s meeting will not be a full party room meeting.
Nationals president Larry Anthony has confirmed he received a complaint. The complaint does not meet the standard of needing to be referred to police.
“The federal party can confirm a formal complaint has been received,” Mr Anthony said. “All complaints are taken seriously and treated with strict confidentiality and given due process.”
In a statement, a spokesman for Mr Joyce said the Deputy Prime Minister described the claims as “spurious and defamatory” and allegations of wrongdoing should be reported to police.
Some in the Nationals believe the claims could be the final straw that could push Mr Joyce to resign – even if the allegations are not true.
Others said Mr Joyce had done nothing wrong and would stare down the “witch hunt”.
It is believed the complaint contributed to Ms Davies calling on Mr Joyce to resign as leader on Tuesday.
Mr Broad said of Mr Joyce yesterday on ABC Radio: “He should see some time out, clear his head and if he’s done nothing wrong in the fullness of time, he’ll come back. He’ll be able to mount his case in the party room. I’m a humble backbencher but … whoever has to be at times the acting prime minister … they have to have their mind on the job.”
However, Leader of the Nationals in the Senate Nigel Scullion said Mr Joyce would still be the Deputy Prime Minister next week.