John Pesutto’s leadership in turmoil as party room spill looms

Supporters of Victorian Opposition leader John Pesutto have declared his leadership is dead after four shadow cabinet ministers called for a party meeting to readmit Moira Deeming. Sky News has obtained the petition signed by shadow ministers Richard Riordan, James Newbury, Brad Battin, and Bridget Vallence as well as former frontbencher Sam Groth. The petition seeks a party room meeting to consider the matter more than two weeks earlier than Mr Pesutto planned to readmit Ms Deeming. Victoria’s Liberal MPs loyal to Mr Pesutto believe his leadership is in turmoil and are calling on him to step down with dignity. The party leadership spill could be held as soon as Friday.