LNP expels Whitsunday MP Jason Costigan from party
Maverick Liberal National Party backbencher Jason Costigan has been expelled from the party, at a meeting of the state executive on Friday morning.
It comes after allegations of "disgusting behaviour" towards an 18-year-old led to Mr Costigan's suspension, revealed on Wednesday night.
It was followed by a second complaint by a 20-year-old woman about an alleged incident when she was 19, which has been forwarded to the LNP's disputes committee for investigation.
In a statement, LNP president David Hutchinson said the party fully recognised the significance of the action and understood that removing a sitting MP would make the challenge of winning the next stage election more difficult.
“However, we expect our elected representatives to meet the high standards,” he said.
“Our priority will always be ensuring that we have the right people representing the LNP in Parliament, regardless of the political cost.”
The incident involving the first woman arose after the 18-year-old arrived at her grandparents' home to allegedly find Mr Costigan alone and shirtless.
Mr Costigan had arranged to stay at the home while on holidays in Victoria and was unaware the teenager was due to arrive.
He has admitted taking selfies with the teenager but claimed she was as "happy as Larry".
However, Brisbane Times understands the woman told her mother she was holding a duress alarm in her handbag.
The mother alleged Mr Costigan's behaviour was "extraordinary".
"It was predatory, sexual, unhinged and intimidating," she said in an email to the LNP.
"My daughter was terrified the entire time she was there.
"She is traumatised by his revoltingness."
Mr Costigan has described the allegations as "baseless" and said he would pursue defamation action.
"I'm not going to roll over on this," he said.
"It is a stitch-up."
Mr Costigan said the woman did not look intimidated or concerned, showing the media selfie photos he took with her.
LNP leader Deb Frecklington has said the allegations made her "skin crawl".
More to come...