Labor powerbroker Joel Fitzgibbon has been accused of "weaponising foreign policy" in explosive comments criticising the government's handling of China relations.
Mr Fitzgibbon has accused the coalition of demonising China and its communist system, raising concerns about consequences of agricultural trade.
He also criticised the Turnbull government for targeting China through tighter investment thresholds and the foreign influence register.
Nationals deputy David Littleproud believes that's a sackable offence.
"This a member of Anthony Albanese's frontbench that is openly undermining his leadership by weaponising foreign policy, our sovereignty and our security," he told reporters in Toowoomba.
"Anthony Albanese, who once before brought in Joel Fitzgibbon and gave him a wrap over the knuckles, either gets rid of him or shows he doesn't have the ticker to lead a competent government."
Asked if he had an issue with Mr Fitzgibbon freelancing on China, Mr Albanese said: "I speak on behalf of the Labor Party."
The Labor leader deflected questions about the comments, preferring to criticise the government over energy policy and economic planning.
"When it comes to the government and people in the media parroting the government lines, that's up to them," he told reporters in Sydney.
Mr Albanese confirmed he hadn't spoken to Mr Fitzgibbon about the issue.
Liberal senator Eric Abetz said it was important to stand up to bullies on the international stage.
"We have Labor people willing to be basically apologists or ventriloquist dolls for the communist regime in China," he told AAP.
Australian Associated Press
