Ray Hadley is defending his decision to support Melinda Pavey as the next leader of the Nationals.

Nationals Deputy Leader Paul Toole is expected to nominate for the leadership, which will be voted on tomorrow.

“Paul Toole’s people have started leaking against Melinda Pavey about her relationship with me and other members of the media,” Ray said.

“Well, there’s a very simple reason why I have a relationship with Melinda Pavey.”

Press PLAY below to hear Ray’s explanation in full

Ray says Melinda Pavey fronts up when there are questions to answer for, while the same can’t be said for Paul Toole.

“He runs and hides.

“He’s wanting to come on when there’s good news, but if there’s something I need to have a chat with him about he can’t be sighted off Nobbys.”