WA Liberals react to leadership showdown

WA LIBERALS REACT TO COLLEAGUE LUKE SIMPKINS' CALL FOR A LEADERSHIP SPILL:

Julie Bishop, deputy Liberal Party leader

"I agreed with the prime minister that due to cabinet solidarity and my position as deputy there should be support for current leadership in the spill motion."

Senator Mathias Cormann

"I support Tony Abbott as our prime minister and Julie Bishop as the deputy leader of the Liberal Party. I will vote to defeat the motion as I would urge all of my colleagues. Tony Abbott and Julie Bishop enjoy the overwhelming support of the party room."

Christian Porter, member for Pearce

"I am a supporter of the prime minister, I do not support the spill motion. I do expect it to be defeated, but I would prefer to see it withdrawn."

Senator Chris Back

"I liken it to a family dispute and, therefore, best sorted out round the dining room table and not best sorted out in the public arena. Luke hasn't approached me to canvass my views on the action he's taken."

Dennis Jensen, member for Tangney

Referred to his comment on ABC TV on Tuesday: "I believe that it is necessary that this is brought to a head and lanced."

WA Premier Colin Barnett

"This last week has been very difficult for Tony Abbott as prime minister, but I do not believe the issues that are being talked about warrant a spill of the leadership."

Don Randall, member for Canning, who will second the motion

Written statement: "At this stage, Mr Randall will be reserving comment for the party room."