Guy Barnett elected deputy Premier after Michael Ferguson’s fall

There was only one candidate to replace the under-fire Michael Ferguson after he resigned from his portfolios. Here’s Tasmania’s new deputy Premier.

Michael Ferguson with his wife, their son and Premier Jeremy Rockliff as he steps down as Deputy Premier and Treasurer. Picture: Craig Herbert

Guy Barnett is Tasmania’s new deputy Premier.

He was elected unopposed at a meeting of the parliamentary Liberal Party on Tuesday morning.

Government Whip Simon Wood announced Mr Barnett would replace Michael Ferguson who stepped down late on Monday ahead of a likely no-confidence Labor intended to move when parliament resumes this morning.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

Health Minister Guy Barnett. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

A senator for almost 10 years Mr Barnett, 62, a lawyer was elected to state parliament in 2014 as the member for Lyons.

Mr Barnett was appointed to Cabinet in 2016 and is currently the Attorney-General, Minister for Justice, Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs.

It is not yet known who will take on the key position of Treasurer. In the past both Labor and Liberal Premiers have held the job.

More to come

Originally published as Guy Barnett elected deputy Premier after Michael Ferguson’s fall