Gasping Coalition

First, there is the leadership issue. The Nationals should have stuck with Lawrence Springborg. He performed well during the campaign. For the Liberals - with Caltabiano out of office - Flegg has some time to learn the art of leadership, but needs help and support.

Second, the National and Liberal parties must come to an early agreement about how they are to manage their future relationship. Its mismanagement has been the prime cause of their failures. This will become even more important with a new redistribution. This must not become, as in the past, a public fight over seats.

Third, there is policy development. What do the Coalition parties stand for?

Fourth, there is membership renewal. The Nationals have several long-term members retiring before the next election. They need candidates who better reflect mainstream opinion.

The Liberals must expand their membership base, attract candidates from a wider spectrum with the political skills to confront Australia's most professional and entrenched government.

Last, John Howard take heed. Stopping the merger of the Coalition parties contributed to the recent election debacle. More strategic federal intervention in the Queensland Liberals is needed. You cannot run a national party if your state branches are broke, lack members, experience, and are internally divided.