Mr Turnbull says he is the only candidate with a strong, clear, consistent and principled position on the emissions trading scheme.

“That’s what I stand for,” Mr Turnbull said.

He told Sky news just ahead of the ballot that he would “always fight the good fight” and he maintained that Australians want to see this emissions trading issue dealt with.

He said the amendments secured for the Government’s proposed carbon pollution reduction scheme would protect tens of thousands of jobs.

“We can’t be a policy free zone,” Mr Turnbull said

“We can’t be seen as climate deniers.”

When asked about his attack on colleagues earlier this week, Mr Turnbull said he has proven he can work with people he’s had past differences with.

“I don’t bear grudges; I’m not a hater.

“I’ve been able to put past animosities behind me.”

He said he’s always believed that the “things that unite us are more important than those which divide us”.

He confirmed he would be a contender if the leadership is declared open amidst speculation he may bow out if a spill was called.