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Fed: Liberal backbencher unaware of moves to oust Bishop


20 Apr 2009 11:38 AM

CANBERRA, April 20 AAP - Liberal backbencher Mitch Fifield says he is unaware of any moves within the Liberal Party to oust deputy leader Julie Bishop.

A grouping inside the Liberal Party, known as the "Big Swinging Dicks" was plotting to remove Ms Bishop from her role as deputy, News Limited reported last week.

Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull has dismissed the reports, saying he has "never read anything so baseless and absurd".

Senator Fifield said on Monday he did not know of any gatherings by Liberal MPs where the subject of Ms Bishop's position had been discussed.

"I certainly haven't been invited to them, if there are," he told Sky News.

"But look, I totally support Julie, I think she's doing a great job and I think all my colleagues should get in behind her."

It was important for the party to keep its focus on Labor's policies including alcopops and asylum seekers, he said.