Former New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian says she has no recollection of text messages critical of Prime Minister Scott Morrison and put to him during an address to the National Press Club.
Mr Morrison was confronted by Network Ten political editor Peter Van Onselen at the event on Tuesday, who claimed he had received a copy of text messages between Ms Berejiklian and an unnamed Liberal cabinet minister.
The network has reported that in a series of messages Ms Berejiklian allegedly refers to the prime minister as a “horrible, horrible person”, who she "did not trust".
Mr Morrison responded to a question about the messages by saying he did not know what the journalist was referring to, and he doesn’t agree with the sentiment.
“Well, I don't know who you're referring to. Or the basis of what you've put to me. But I obviously don't agree with it. And I don't think that that is my record,” he told the press club.
Ms Berejiklian has not denied sending the texts but says she has no recollection of them.
“I understand there has been some commentary today concerning myself and the PM,” she said in a statement.
“I have no recollection of such messages. Let me reiterate my very strong support for Prime Minister Morrison and all he is doing for our nation during these very challenging times.
I also strongly believe he is the best person to lead our nation for years to come.”
Ms Berejiklian was just months ago praised by the prime minister as a possible contender for a federal seat, but ultimately announced she had decided to bow out of politics.
Mr Morrison also criticised the Independent Commission Against Corruption’s investigation into the former premier, which prompted her resignation.
“The way that Gladys Berejiklian has been treated has been shameful,” he told reporters.
The question to Mr Morrison came after he delivered a during the pandemic and urging voters to keep faith in the Coalition to lead the country.
