'Sad comments': Littleproud hits out at McGowan following Dutton 'extremist' comment

Nationals frontbencher David Littleproud has hit out at the Western Australian Premier after Mark McGowan blasted Liberal Party leadership frontrunner Peter Dutton. Mr McGowan labelled Mr Dutton an “extremist” on Monday when asked if the former Defence Minister was a suitable candidate for the Liberal leadership role amid speculation he was firming up as a favourite to replace Scott Morrison in the role. Mr Littleproud has defended Mr Dutton this morning, calling Mr McGowan's comments “sad” and “unnecessary”. “Mark McGowan, he might be riding high in WA, but they are sad comments, and I think if you ask any one of the Labor Party in federal politics, they would say Peter Dutton is one of the smartest politicians there,” Mr Littleproud said.