Malcolm Turnbull rebukes MPs over move to ban live sheep exports

Malcolm Turnbull has delivered what was seen as a slap down to Coalition MPs wanting to ban the export of live sheep.

The prime minister reminded a meeting of government members there are internal processes they should follow, rather than moving a Private Members Bill.

Liberal backbencher, and former Health Minister Sussan Ley yesterday introduced her own legislation to ban the exports after outrage over the deaths of thousands of sheep in a shipment to the Middle East.

The government has responded with a plan to impose strict new controls, and bring in heavily fines against companies as well as jail terms for individuals.

While Ms Ley's bill is unlikely to be brought forward by the government for debate, and would be unlikely to pass the Lower House, a growing number of her colleagues have supported her.

And while the prime minister reminded his MPs they should raise issues internally, a number of Coalition members defended Ms Ley's right to move a Private Members Bill.

One MP told the meeting of government members there was a lot of a negative feed back in the electorate.

There was also concern the issue could be a "vote changer".

Labor wants to phase out live exports, and the Greens would support a ban.

The issue is causing increasing friction within the Coalition, with the National Party strongly opposed.

Agriculture Minister, David Littleproud, is in the Middle East to reassure customers.

And they've reminded the minister that when trade is threatened, they must look elsewhere .