Sussan Ley and David Littleproud signal Coalition reunification possible amid renewed talks

Nationals leader suggests dispute could be settled before parliament resumes in late July

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Sussan Ley and David Littleproud have signalled the fractured opposition Coalition could reform in time for the resumption of parliament in July, pausing plans to name their frontbench lineups to give the Liberals more time to consider Nationals policy demands.

The two leaders held direct talks on Thursday morning, less than 48 hours after the first split between the parties since the late 1980s. But Littleproud insisted any reconciliation was still contingent on the four key demands. They include the introduction of nuclear power, break up powers for the supermarkets, a $20bn regional fund and improved regional telecommunications guarantees.

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