Victorian Liberal MP Bev McArthur, who was targeted with offensive comments by ex-state director Stuart Smith, said the disgraced figure had “no choice but to resign”.

The beleaguered Victorian Liberal Party was thrown into chaos on Wednesday evening when it was reported Mr Smith had sent a string of offensive messages to a head office staff WhatsApp group chat disparaging the Liberals Women’s Council and stating Ms McArthur, who is 76 years old had “dementia”.

Mr Smith released an apology on Wednesday and announced on Thursday he had tendered his resignation “to minimise distractions from the important task of winning the next election”.

Victorian opposition leader Brad Battin said Mr Smith’s comments were “unacceptable and do not reflect the standards of professionalism, integrity and

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