Crucial news

Here’s how the top news stories unfolded, beginning last Tuesday, in order of importance according to the Australian media:

TUESDAY
Shadow cabinet approves emissions trading deal, after the Government agrees to concessions, but senior Liberal Andrew Robb says the deal isn’t good enough. Maverick Wilson Tuckey calls for a leadership spill unless Turnbull allows a secret ballot on emissions trading. Turnbull is defiant.

WEDNESDAY
Tony Abbott says he won’t challenge Turnbull and wants the party’s position upheld in the Senate. Joe Hockey also rules out a challenge. But Kevin Andrews declares he will run against Turnbull. Tuckey’s motion for a spill is defeated 48-35 and Turnbull calls for unity.

THURSDAY
Abbott resigns from the shadow cabinet, saying he cannot support Labor’s emmissions scheme, fuelling speculation Turnbull will face another leadership challenge. Liberal powerbroker Nick Minchin follows, along with other front benchers. Turnbull insists he is still the leader, despite the string of resignations.

FRIDAY
Tiger Woods has accident outside his house, running into a fire hydrant and then backing into a tree with his car. Irate wife chases him with a golf club.

SATURDAY
Abbott confirms he will challenge Turnbull on Monday. Speculation that Joe Hockey could be a compromise candidate, with Queensland’s Peter Dutton as his running mate. Deputy Leader Julie Bishop is forced to deny she asked Turnbull to resign.

SUNDAY
Turnbull stands firm and says he will not resign and will be leader of the Liberals after another leadership spill this week. Polling puts Turnbull and Hockey on level pegging, with Abbott just behind.

MONDAY
Senate sits again in an attempt to pass ETS legislation before Rudd heads to Copenhagen summit next month. Crucial Liberal party room meeting put back until Tuesday because all party members not available.

TUESDAY
Tony Abbott emerges as new Liberal Leader -  then puts the kybosh on ETS by winning a secret ballot to file it in the bin until further notice!