BARNABY JOYCE ELECTED UNOPPOSED AS NEW NATIONALS LEADER

Bob Carr and John Hewson have raised doubts about the incoming Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce.

The former foreign minister described the new Nationals leader as a comedian and erratic, and likened him to controversial presidential candidate Donald Trump.

While former Liberal leader John Hewson believes Mr Joyce has what it takes to be Deputy PM, he believes he will have to mature into the job.

Mr Joyce, the Federal Member for New England, was elected unopposed as the 13th leader of the party last night, following Warren Truss’ decision to retire.

Senator Fiona Nash was chosen as deputy leader, from a field of seven candidates.