However,the moderates are the dominant faction and Mr Stokes could emerge as their preferred candidate,with Mr Perrottet as his deputy.
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It is understood that Mr Stokes would be prepared to nominate for the position when the party room meets on Tuesday to elect the new premier.
Environment Minister Matt Kean,who was in tears during Ms Berejiklian’s resignation announcement,has long been touted as a deputy to Mr Perrottet if he were elected premier.
Other outside options are Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres and Transport Minister Andrew Constance.