LNP's plan B - Who'll replace Newman

LNP CONTENDERS TO REPLACE AN UNSEATED CAMPBELL NEWMAN AS QUEENSLAND PREMIER

FAVOURITES

TIM NICHOLLS - The treasurer looms as the man most likely if, as the polls predict, Newman loses his Ashgrove seat and the LNP retain government. Sharp, polished, conservative and has led the way in selling plans to lease public assets.

LAWRENCE SPRINGBORG - The preferred choice for the old National Party faithful, serving as opposition leader twice when Labor was in government during the past decade. Became the inaugural LNP leader but could lose out as yesterday's man in a bloody party-room battle.

DARK HORSE

SCOTT EMERSON - The small `L' liberal has enjoyed a rapid rise in his second term in parliament, making fine strides as transport minister. A former political journalist, he may lack the experience to gain the top job.

OUTSIDERS

JOHN-PAUL LANGBROEK - Education minister and former party leader

IAN WALKER - Responsible and confident first-term minister

FIONA SIMPSON - Speaker of the house and experienced, popular National

DEB FRECKLINGTON - Rising member of LNP's next-generation

JEFF SEENEY - Head-kicking deputy premier, who insists he's not in the running

* Newman has consistently denied he would parachute into a safe LNP seat at a by-election if ousted