QLD: Libs preselection battle goes to court

AAP General News (Australia)
08-02-2001
QLD: Libs preselection battle goes to court

The head of the Liberal Electorate Council in the Brisbane seat of Ryan has told the
Supreme Court she was intimidated by fellow Liberals over pushing for a preselection in
the seat.

Liberal Federal Executive Council Chair PENNY BIHAN testified at the hearing today
where failed Ryan candidate BOB TUCKER is seeking to overturn the party's decision to
hold a limited preselection.

Ms BIHAN said there were groans from the state executive, including former Liberal
State President CON GALTOS, whenever the issue of preselection was raised.

She said she felt intimidated in raising the issue and felt like Mr GALTOS didn't want
it to be dealt with.

Mr TUCKER's barrister PAT KEANE, QC, has argued the party membership was disenfranchised
by the decision to hold a limited preselection where only 56 Liberals will vote.

The Liberals claim the decision was based on a party rule which allows the process
under exceptional circumstances.

AAP RTV ap/kj/geb/jh/jn

KEYWORD: RYAN COURT (BRISBANE)

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