Tasmaian Liberal Senator Eric Abetz has been quick to welcome Peter Gutwein as Tasmania's Premier-elect.
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He issued a media release titled, Gutwein - Great Choice, just 11 minutes after Infrastructure Minister Michael Ferguson sent a media statement saying he would not contest the leadership against the Treasurer.
Senator Abetz praised Mr Gutwein for his "policy grunt" and said his election would ensure stability.
"Whilst Will Hodgman's leadership has been exceptional Peter Gutwein was always there in the engine room developing the policy framework and financial stewardship needed to transform Tasmania," Senator Abetz said.
"Peter's personal role in turning the fortunes of Tasmanians around cannot be over-estimated.
"Jeremy Rockliff's re-election as deputy will provide further stability and on-going experience to keep Tasmania on the right course."
Senator Abetz welcomed Mr Ferguson and his running mate Elise Archer's decision to withdraw.
"While Michael Ferguson and Elise Archer would've also made a good leadership team their decision to withdraw is a fine example of putting State and Party ahead of personal ambition," he said.