Guy Barnett has been elected unopposed as the Tasmanian Liberal Party’s new deputy leader and sworn in as the state’s Deputy Premier.
Mr Barnett replaces Michael Ferguson, who quit the frontbench yesterday ahead of a planned no-confidence motion against him.
“It’s a great honour to have been elected unopposed by my Parliamentary Liberal Party colleagues as Deputy Leader, and sworn in as Deputy Premier,” said Mr Barnett.
“To serve the people of Tasmania is one of my life’s greatest privileges, and I look forward to continuing to serve our incredible community.”
Mr Barnett joined the Liberal Party in 1980.
“I have a deep love for the values of our great party and will continue to strive each day to honour what the Liberal Party stands for,” he said.
“Tasmania is the best place to live, work and raise a family. Under our Tasmanian Liberal Government and the leadership of Premier Jeremy Rockliff, we are continuing to take action on the things that matter to Tasmanians like cost of living, health and housing.
“To the voters of Lyons, who have placed their confidence in me as their Member of Parliament since 2014, I reiterate my commitment to serving them with the same passion and energy I had when I was first elected.”
Mr Barnett also today recognised Mr Ferguson for his contributions to Tasmania as a part of the Liberal Cabinet over a long period of time.
“Michael has steadfastly stood alongside the Premier and acted in Tasmania’s best interests at all times with integrity and conviction,” he said.
“I thank my Parliamentary colleagues for their support of me, and I look forward to continuing to work together to deliver on our Government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.”
Mr Ferguson will remain in parliament as a Liberal member for Bass.