"I think Alby has a bit of an identity crisis at times," Mrs Gash told ABC radio yesterday.

"Alby's Alby! Fortunately in the Liberal Party we can be quite open about what we think and what we say - and that's Alby's opinion," she said.

"I was given the job as a Government whip and I'm pleased to be the whip, even though I'm one of the people Alby is talking about."

Mrs Gash said she is not going to comment on what Mr Schultz had to say, but added: "What I would like to say is that what he is insinuating is that there's a back bench revolt.

"But there's no such thing whatsoever. Alby is entitled to his opinion, but it's certainly not mine."