Peter Dutton ‘very clear’ about his Prime Minister ambitions

Neil Mitchell says the Liberal Party would be mad to dump Malcolm Turnbull as leader, despite 30 successive losing Newspolls.

“There is no option to Malcolm Turnbull,” the 3AW Mornings host said.

Mr Turnbull famously referenced 30 losing polls as a reason to topple Tony Abbott as Prime Minister.

Peter Dutton has been mooted as a possible alternative to Mr Turnbull.

The Home Affairs minister again reiterated his desire to become Prime Minister on 3AW Mornings.

“I’ve been very clear about that,” Mr Dutton said.

“I think people are best to be honest about their ambitions.

“There’s 149 people in federal parliament – I’m one.

“I think the other 148, if they were being honest, would tell you that if the opportunity came their way they’d be interested as well.”

But he told Neil Mitchell he wouldn’t be trying to remove Mr Turnbull as leader.

Neil Mitchell also asked whether Mr Dutton had spoken with Mr Abbott about “cooling it”.

Peter Dutton: I wouldn’t go into private conversations I’ve had with Tony. I have a great respect for him.

Neil Mitchell: I take that as a yes.

Peter Dutton: Take it as I don’t comment on private conversations.

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview