Andrew Hastie has fronted the media to address his sensational exit from his role as shadow home affairs minister and clarified whether he was challenging Opposition Leader Sussan Ley.

Speaking from Perth on Saturday morning, Mr Hastie said he had spoken with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley about his “very personal decision” to step back from the Coalition frontbench.

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.

On Saturday, Mr Hastie said “it was very clear” he would not be leading the Coalition’s immigration policy as shadow home affairs minister.

“When it was made clear that I wouldn't have any leadership in that role, I thought it was time for me to depart, because es

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