Every vote is vital to Nats

One of our main sources of grassroots feedback is the rural press. The Queensland Country Life editorial following the Senate vote strongly endorsed the Nationals' stand as well as the importance of the Nationals being in Coalition: "The Nationals deliver a time-proven fit with the urban-centric Liberal Party and an appropriate balance to the extraordinary power wielded by urban Australia."

The $2.4 billion communications fund was the deal breaker that allowed the Nationals to support the Liberals in selling Telstra. It was the glue that kept the Coalition and the bush united on this hugely significant issue.

It was not a small thing, it was not a maverick stand, it was not Barnaby Joyce bullying other senators to back him: it was in every way conscientious dissent.

Tony says: "A party's principles should not change to suit circumstances." He rightly argues that policies have to change to respect democracy and that we don't have to vote against something until there is evidence that the electorate's opinion has changed. But similarly, if the electorate's opinion has not changed on an issue and it is in fact very clear, then we are obliged to heed that democratic voice and vote accordingly.

I am concerned that the Nationals' Senate vote is being turned into what it never was. It was neither opportunistic nor a vehicle for anyone's leadership aspirations.

It was certainly not aimed at breaking the Coalition or subjecting it to unbearable pressure. This is reflected by the fact that so many Liberals were out of their places during the vote. When arrows are directed at Nationals senators, they also hit Liberal targets.

For the Coalition to function effectively and achieve the goal of becoming the next government, there is no room for denying the interests of the junior partner. Consider how much the Liberals realised they needed their pals the Nationals to form government in Western Australia.

It might be easy in the city electorates to brush away a few votes because they are in the bush. But the Nationals cannot afford that luxury. We fight for every vote, and every vote brings the Coalition closer to winning government.

If our supporters believe that we sold them out, they would vote independent or for a One Nation type outfit.

"The Liberal Party respects conscientious dissent", but apparently not when it comes to Nationals senators. Do you really think that I acted for some other reason, Tony? Or that I am easily leaned on by others?

Heaven forbid our democracy should fall asleep with no Opposition such that "'Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a Nationals mouse".