Foreign Minister Marise Payne has repeatedly ducked a question from ABC’s Insiders host on whether the Liberal Party’s Warringah candidate should be dumped over her controversial comments on transgender people.
Ms Payne, who is also Women’s Minister, avoided stating her opinion on whether Katherine Deves should continue to contest the Sydney seat, which was formerly held by Liberal Tony Abbott before being captured by independent Zali Steggall at the last election.
“I don't share Ms Deves’ views on the comments that she has made,” Ms Payne told David Speers on Sunday morning.
“But importantly, she has apologised and she has withdrawn those views.”
Speers repeatedly pressed Ms Payne on whether she believes Ms Deves should stay on the Liberal ticket, but Ms Payne insisted it was a matter for the local party division and avoided stating her own view.
“Minister, you are one of the most senior figures in the NSW division. Do you think Catherine Deves should be dropped?” Speers asked.
When Ms Payne did not directly answer the question, he repeated it.
“Do you think she should be dropped as the candidate, is the question?” he asked again.
“David, it's a matter for the organisation in NSW. I need to get on with my job. That’s what I’m xjmtzywdoing,” Ms Payne responded.
Ms Deves was slammed by NSW Treasurer Matt Kean for her comments, which included a false claim most trans men were sex offenders.
But the Prime Minister has stood by the candidate, and she‘s received support from Mr Abbott as well.
