Posted by 
Former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she has "no recollection" of an alleged private text message exchange about Prime Minister Scott Morrison, aired by a journalist during a question and answer session with Mr Morrison.
Journalist Peter Van Onselen told Mr Morrison during the Press Club lunch he was in possession of private text messages sent between former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and an unnamed current Liberal cabinet minister. It is unclear if the unnamed minister works at state or federal level.
"In one (Ms Berejiklian) describes you as, 'a horrible, horrible person'," Van Onselen alleged. He also alleged the cabinet minister described Mr Morrison as a "fraud" and "a complete psycho".
ANALYSIS: Tough Q&A hints at PM's big political calculation ahead of election
READ MORE: 'Oppressive' heatwave warning for Queensland
Mr Morrison appeared to be taken aback by the question and responded: "I don't know who you're referring to. Or the basis of what you've put to me. But I obviously don't agree with it. And I don't think that that is my record."
Ms Berejiklian later issued a statement in response to the alleged text messages.
"I understand there has been some commentary today concerning myself and the PM," she said.
"I have no recollection of such messages.
"Let me reiterate my very strong support for Prime Minister Morrison and all he is doing for our nation during these very challenging times.
"I also strongly believe he is the best person to lead our nation for years to come."
Mr Morrison has publicly been a vocal supporter of the former NSW premier, touting her as a potential candidate in the federal electorate of Warringah.
Ms Berejiklian resigned last year after it was revealed she was to be the subject of an inquiry by the state corruption watchdog around if she engaged in conduct that involved a breach of public trust. Ms Berejiklian has denied any wrongdoing.
'Don't write Morrison off after last miracle'
Nine News Political Editor Chris Uhlmann said the Press Club grilling may have been a difficult point for Mr Morrison in an election year, but it wasn't necessarily a killer blow to his re-election chances.
"This was tough a tough day at the office for the Prime Minister," Uhlmann said.
"He knows he has to confront the frustration and anger that is rife in the community after two years of the pandemic but he also wants to salvage some credit.
"That means walking a fine line and what he said today will never satisfy some of his critics.
"If this election is a referendum of the government's handling of the pandemic, then he loses.
"His hope is to get Australians to focus on the choice about the future and who is best placed to lead the economic recovery.
"Now you can't write Scott Morrison off after the Coalition's last miracle win, but make no mistake, he's got a lot of ground to make up and time is rapidly running out."
Source: 9News
