Mettam not to contest

Liberal deputy leader Libby Mettam will not nominate for the party’s leadership on Tuesday, paving the way for David Honey to take the reins.

Ms Mettam and Dr Honey are the only two Liberals likely to be elected in the Legislative Assembly after the statewide poll on March 13.

Business News understands Ms Mettam, who represents the south western electorate of Vasse District, will not be a contender in a leadership ballot on Tuesday.

That means she will likely remain as deputy leader, although it is theoretically possible an upper house member could be appointed.

Dr Honey held the shadow energy portfolio during the election campaign, and was tasked with adovcating the New Energy Jobs plan.

Ms Mettam had been responsible for the shadow transport portfolio.

Dr Honey is the member for Cottesloe District, which he is projected to win with a swing against him of 6.2 per cent.

That seat was formerly held by Liberal premier Colin Barnett.

A former Liberal Party WA state president, Dr Honey was an executive at Alcoa and has a PhD in chemistry.