NSW Opposition leader Mark Speakman has sacked an upper house Nationals MP over a now-deleted social media post that criticised him.
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Wagga MLC Wes Fang launched a salvo at Mr Speakman after he failed to inform him he was visiting the Wagga electorate after being invited by local member, independent MP, Joe McGirr.
"So ... the leader of the NSW Liberals Mark Speakman, slinks into #WaggaWagga, pretending like the Libs actually care about the Riverina," Mr Fang posted.
"Did he ask the 'Coalition' member who lives in Wagga Wagga and is apparently part of his 'team' to have an in-depth discussion of Wagga Wagga issues?
"No. In fact, he didn't even have the courtesy to let me know he was coming."
In statement Mr Speakman said Mr Fang's "public behaviour" made his position "untenable".
"I have therefore terminated his appointments as shadow assistant minister for police and emergency services, shadow assistant minister for regional NSW, and shadow assistant minister for agriculture and natural resources, with immediate effect," Mr Speakman said.
But Nationals leader Dugald Saunders said Mr Fang was "unable to be stood down in this way" because he is a member of the NSW Nationals.
Mr Saunders said Mr Fang would continue to be in shadow cabinet.
Mr Fang has been contacted for comment.
Carla Mascarenhas
Carla Mascarenhas is the NSW correspondent covering breaking news, state politics and investigations. She is based in Sydney. Contact her on carla.mascarenhas@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Carla Mascarenhas is the NSW correspondent covering breaking news, state politics and investigations. She is based in Sydney. Contact her on carla.mascarenhas@austcommunitymedia.com.au
