Speaker Sue Hickey told she lost Liberal party endorsement for next state election

In a statement released Sunday afternoon, Ms Hickey said Premier Peter Gutwein told her she will not be endorsed by the party.

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Ms Hickey said she had effectively been "sacked" from the government party, and said Mr Gutwein told her she was not supported by the Liberal parliamentary colleagues or the party itself.

She said it was disappointing, but "symptomatic the Liberal Party could not accommodate strong women of independent thought and initiative".

"I strongly support what I believe are true Liberal ideals, such as promoting small business and providing increased opportunities for the community," Ms Hickey said.

"But at the same time, I believe we should provide the necessary services and support for those who are vulnerable and in need.

"While the Liberals may not have been happy with the manner in which I assumed the Speakership, I have always acted fairly in the role and in accordance with proper parliamentary processes and requirements."

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Ms Hickey said she had always supported the Liberal government in matters of confidence and budget supply, and commended the premier for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I have also provided significant input into the parliamentary party's policy direction and indeed a number of initiatives in the Premier's State-of-the-State address were in line with my suggestions as part of my regular discussions directly with the Premier," she said.

Ms Hickey said she believed she was a strong advocate for the electors and community of Clark, and was determined to continue to serve them in the Tasmanian parliament.

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"However, it is evident from my discussion with the Premier that this will not be as a member of the Liberal Party and this is a cause for regret on my part and will also be for the thousands of people who voted for me at the last election," she said.

"This is a challenging time for the Liberal Party and its supporters.

"It appears that the men in dark suits are firmly in control and there is no place for small 'l' Liberal women who refuse to kowtow or be subservient to the dominant males."

Premier Peter Gutwein said he informed Ms Hickey on Sunday that there is "not support across the wider party" for her to be endorsed as a Liberal candidate for the next election.

"And that is a view that I share," he said.

"A Government needs to operate as a strong team and I believe that each Liberal Government member must work as part of that team to serve the people of Tasmania whilst upholding the values, principles and policies of the Liberal party.

"Our clear plan for the State is working and my focus remains firmly fixed on securing Tasmania's future."

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