Liberal MPs are set to return to Parliament on Wednesday to finalize a months-long review of the party's climate and energy policy. The move comes after the Nationals formally abandoned the 2050 net zero emissions target last Sunday, forcing the Liberals to accelerate their own plans.
Shadow ministers will meet on Thursday to settle a unified Liberal position, which leader Sussan Ley will then take to Nationals leader David Littleproud. A joint party room meeting, held remotely, is scheduled for next Sunday to conclude the review.
The internal debate has been a major distraction for the Coalition since its election defeat in May. Liberal frontbencher James Paterson warned that the infighting is hindering the Opposition's ability to hold the government accountable. 'A bad government is getting away with bad policies that are hurting our country, because we have not yet answered those questions,' Senator Paterson said.
Moderate Liberals have indicated that completely abandoning the net zero target would be a red line, setting up a significant test for leader Sussan Ley. She must navigate a position that keeps the Coalition together while satisfying both the right flank and moderates who backed her leadership.
The party aims to resolve the matter quickly to refocus on pressuring the government. The outcome of the joint party room meeting will determine the Coalition's official stance on net zero emissions.
