Labor accuses Nationals of trading opposition to net zero for extra cabinet position

Barnaby Joyce says decision is settled' as resources minister Keith Pitt - who opposed 2050 target - is promoted within Coalition cabinet

The federal Nationals leader, Barnaby Joyce, has said he supports the process" that led the party to back a net zero emissions target even as he came under fire for opposing the climate policy backed by a majority in the party room.

Joyce on Monday insisted his opposition to the target was irrelevant given the final decision reflected the will of the party room. The Nationals secured an extra cabinet position as part of the Coalition deal, with the resources minister, Keith Pitt - who also opposed the mid-century target - reelevated.