Turnbull lite?

But he’s going to have to completely reverse his policy on the ETS, and that isn’t going to be particularly convincing. And Turnbull’s outburst at Nick Minchin “and the wreckers” with Laurie Oakes yesterday has backfired spectacularly as well:

IN a strong sign he is about to throw his hat into the Liberal leadership ring, Joe Hockey is holding talks at his Sydney home with Queensland Liberal Peter Dutton.

Mr Dutton is viewed as a potential candidate for the deputy Liberal leader’s spot, The Australian reports.

The pair arrived in separate cars today and made no comment as they entered the Hockey family home.

However, smiling Mr Hockey joked to the waiting media “you’re breeding”.

While Tony Abbott has also declared his intention to run, he may pull out of the race if Mr Hockey enters the ring.

Liberals say support for Mr Turnbull is bleeding away after his angry performance on Channel Nine’s Laurie Oakes interview where he attacked Mr Hockey, Senate leader Nick Minchin and Mr Abbott.

This is not looking particularly good for the party. Hockey is an ally of Turnbull’s – it’s going to be very awkward for him to stand against his leader. He will of course have to resign from the shadow cabinet before standing. The fight looks like being Turnbull -vs- Turnbull-lite, which is not what the party needs.

Read it here.