NSW politics: Chris Rath, Scott Farlow and James Wallace held meeting with Speakman

A trio of Liberal MPs backing Kellie Sloane had a private meeting with Mark Speakman amid increasing speculation he is set to be replaced.

NSW State Opposition Leader Mark Speakman. Picture: Richard Dobson

A trio of Liberal MPs backing Kellie Sloane sought a private meeting with Mark Speakman on Wednesday night amid increasing speculation the NSW Opposition Leader is set to be replaced by the former television presenter.

The delegation of moderate and centre right factional powerbrokers entered Mr Speakman’s office as festive celebrations for politicians and the press gallery wrapped up at state parliament, with speculation rife at the event that Mr Speakman would face a leadership challenge within 24 hours.

It is understood the group that approached Mr Speakman comprised Chris Rath, Scott Farlow and James Wallace.

While it was not clear specifically what was discussed, but sources speculated it involved the state of affairs in the party.

An MP from the conservative faction of the Liberals told The Daily Telegraph “shit is going down tonight”.

Various deals were being brokered on Wednesday to secure support and cement numbers for different candidates.

Among the deals of which the Telegraph is aware is a promise that former federal MP Jenny Ware would not run in the state seat of Miranda, held by fellow moderate Eleni Petinos.

Chris Rath is one of the MPs understood to have sought a meeting with Mr Speakman.

He was reportedly joined by James Wallace.

The right had been claiming Ms Petinos might back Mr Henskens given her unhappiness at Ms Ware challenging her, but the deal would instead secure her support for Ms Sloane.

While Ms Sloane has long been reluctant to challenge her factional ally, it is understood the Vaucluse MP has been convinced in recent days she would easily have the numbers to replace Mr Speakman as leader in the event of a spill.

MP Scott Farlow Shadow was also said to have been part of the private meeting.

Should Mr Speakman be advised he was being challenged, a Liberal Party room meeting would be called.

The Daily Telegraph understands Ms Sloane, the Opposition health spokeswoman and a former television presenter, would have at least 19 votes among the Liberal 33 MPs in state parliament.

Member of the NSW Liberal Party Kellie Sloane. Picture Thomas Lisson

Supporters of rival Alister Henskens, the MP for Wahroonga, have been attempting to gather support, but at this stage the former lawyer does not have the numbers to win the leadership.

A senior party figure said Mr Speakman “has no numbers” in the event of a challenge.

Mr Speakman, who has been absent from regular press conferences and media appearances over the past week, insisted yesterday he would “absolutely not” be stepping aside.

He had earlier posted a campaign-style social media video to spruik his leadership credentials amid swirling speculation, admitting he was “a bit boring”.

“We focus so much these days on the performer and not their actual performance, especially in politics,” he said.

“I don’t believe in showing off. I believe in showing up.

“I guess that means I’m a bit boring to some people.

“But you know what? Boring gets the job done.”

Do you know more? Message 0481 056 618 or email [e-mail]

Originally published as NSW politics: Chris Rath, Scott Farlow and James Wallace held meeting with Speakman