Fed: Nelson doing great job, says Truss

AAP General News (Australia)
04-13-2008
Fed: Nelson doing great job, says Truss

CANBERRA, April 13 AAP - Nationals leader Warren Truss has given a glowing assessment
of embattled Opposition Leader Brendan Nelson and says he will win the hearts and minds
of Australians.

Mr Truss was commenting after widespread media reports Dr Nelson is facing discontent
with his leadership and that treasury spokesman Malcolm Turnbull is poised to make a move
for the job soon.

Mr Truss said the choice of opposition leader was obviously a matter for the Nationals'
coalition partner, the Liberal Party.

"(But) I'm working very well with Brendan, I've got a great deal of confidence in him,"

he told the Nine Network.

"I think he's got enormous ability, compassion and an affinity for the Australian people
(and) he will win hearts and minds and he can do the job very well."

Mr Truss said the Nationals would work with whoever the Liberals chose as their leader.

"We've been able to (work with the leader) successfully in the past and I'm confident
we can do that in the future," he said.

He also praised Dr Nelson's policy approach.

"I don't think Brendan has been timid in his approach to policy issues around the country,"

he said.

"He's addressing the hard issues. He's seeking to find answers to them."

AAP dep/jt/mn

KEYWORD: LIBERALS TRUSS

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