Andrew Hastie has sensationally quit Sussan Ley’s frontbench after accusing the Liberal leader of sidelining him on immigration, deepening internal rifts and fuelling speculation over the party’s direction.

The West Australian MP confirmed his decision in a statement on Friday, saying he could not remain in the role if he was blocked from speaking on migration policy.

“The leader has made it clear that the shadow home affairs minister won’t lead the Coalition's response to immigration matters or develop the Coalition’s immigration policy,” he said.

“On this basis, I made the decision that I was not able to continue in this role and remain silent on immigration. Therefore out of respect for Sussan’s leadership, I am resigning from the frontbench.

"Sussan deserves the opportunity to lead

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