Nationals Senator Matt Canavan has backed party leader David Littleproud today amid claims he misled MPs during the split with the Liberal Party.
Littleproud is facing a backlash on two fronts after the Nationals quit the federal Coalition last week.
Canavan, who recently ran against him for the leadership position, mentioned on Today this morning that although Littleproud is doing an “excellent job,” the party’s current condition is “somewhat disorganized.”
Some high-ranking Liberal Members of Parliament feel that the only way to reunite the two parties is if Littleproud resigns, while one National MP has openly criticized their party leader.
“How David Littleproud’s leadership pans out in the long term is unknown. I can’t support a man who misleads the party room,” Boyce said.
Canavan was pressed by Today host Karl Stefanovic about a future leadership challenge, and said he was happy with Littleproud’s performance.
“I can’t give guarantees what other people do. I’m happy with the leadership, that’s what I can say.
“I believe David has been doing well. It’s obviously a bit chaotic right now, but we need to address these issues immediately rather than waiting three years.”
The Nationals’ decision to leave the Coalition – the first split in 38 years – was prompted by disagreement over four key policy areas: nuclear energy, a multibillion-dollar regional investment, regional phone coverage, and supermarket divestiture powers.
But Littlerproud and Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley returned to the negotiating table last week following an outcry from party elder statesmen, such as former prime ministers John Howard and Tony Abbott. 
