Angus Taylor is facing increasing pressure from conservative supporters to challenge Sussan Ley for leadership of the Liberal Party. A growing number of Liberals in the right faction believe a spill motion must be called as soon as possible, though a challenge at Tuesday's party room meeting is unlikely due to senators being absent for estimates hearings.
The most feasible option for Taylor's backers would be to request a special meeting on Friday, when estimates are finished. Taylor has not spoken publicly on Monday but previously stated Ley would be the first to know if he intended to challenge her. However, his hesitation has begun to irritate even his potential supporters.
One Liberal said Taylor had 'incorrectly assumed' he could mount a challenge on his 'own timeline' after emerging from secretive talks with Andrew Hastie as the lone right candidate. 'There is a fairly wide view [within the right] this just has to happen now,' the Liberal said.
Focus has also turned to the deputy position, currently held by Shadow Treasurer Ted O'Brien. Victorian Senator Jane Hume is among names discussed, but multiple Liberals indicate Goldstein MP Tim Wilson is a stronger contender. Wilson, a moderate, has not been directly approached.
Allies of Ley, who defeated Taylor 29-25 nine months ago, are confident she still has majority support. Senior Liberal Alex Hawke downplayed the speculation, saying it was 'obvious' Ley had support because no one had challenged her. However, new polling showing One Nation surging ahead has spooked many conservative Liberals.
Public comments sharpened on Monday, with NSW senator Jess Collins calling the polling 'diabolical' and Victorian senator Sarah Henderson saying the party was in 'uncharted territory' and 'something needs to change'. Senator Jonno Duniam confirmed colleagues were talking about leadership, saying 'all of the conversations are occurring'.
