Prior to Question Time today, David Littleproud did me the courtesy of informing me that he would be stepping down as Leader of the Nationals.

As has always been the case, we were able to have that genuine and personal conversation with total confidence. I have always valued that and I thank him for it.

David and I come from very different political traditions and backgrounds but we share a mutual respect for the great honour of serving in the Parliament of Australia and have been able to work together on many issues affecting his community, the regions and our national interest.

It is a significant achievement to be chosen to lead your party and David can look back on his four years as Leader of Nationals and ten years as Member for Maranoa knowing he has given his utmost.

I wish him well and I am sure he will continue to make a contribution on the backbench in the service of his regional Queensland electorate.