Opposition leader explains decision to bail out John Pesutto

Opposition leader Brad Battin has explained the decision to bail out John Pesutto, ensuring he avoids bankruptcy.

The Liberal Party will pay Moira Deeming $1.55 million in defamation costs to settle a legal dispute against the former opposition leader, with Mr Pesutto to repay the loan in a private agreement.

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Mr Battin said the decision was made largely to avoid a by-election and put the high-profile case behind them.

“We can now get on the job we’re supposed to be doing,” he said on 3AW Mornings.

“By-elections are very expensive … those debts needed to be paid off and it’s important it’s finalised.”

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