Senate hearings give Joyce breathing space

Nationals MPs won't be holding a full party room meeting in Canberra next week, giving Barnaby Joyce some breathing space from continued pressure over his affair with a former staffer.

The deputy prime minister and Nationals leader is currently on leave as he considers his future in the wake of his relationship with Vikki Campion, who is having his baby in April.

Nationals whip Michelle Landry says because Senate estimates hearings are being held next week, there won't be the usual Monday meeting of all 21 members and senators.