MEMBER for New England Barnaby Joyce today announced to the house of representatives his resignation from the Australian National Party.

The former deputy prime minister said in a one-minute address he announced his intention to quit the party about five weeks ago.

“Apart from a 90-second phone conversation with the leader (of the National Party), I’ve had no communication with either the leader or Deputy Leader of the National Party to try and resolve this,” Mr Joyce said.

“That’s disappointing. So, after 30 years with the National Party, I am resigning from the party.

“That really leaves me with a heavy heart, and I apologise for all the hurt that will cause other people. I really do,” he said.

Member for New England Barnaby Joyce has quit the National Party.

However, Mr Joyce said his resignation from the National Party was not the most important thing in politics.

“What is really important is that we understand those dealing with the cost of living crisis – that we go in and bat for them,” he said.

“What is really important is that they’re still building intermittent power precincts and swindle factories in regional areas, and destroying communities such as my own.

“What is really important is that the Chinese Communist Government is breathing down our necks and each day become more provocative.

“What is really important is that we have regional hospitals without doctors in them and what I have to do, if I’m going to continue on that fight, is get myself in a better position than the objection chair at the backbench of the coalition in opposition,” he said.