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Tony Abbott is not a "wrecker" and his decision to stay in Parliament won't destabilise Malcolm Turnbull's government, a senior Liberal frontbencher says.
Finance Minister Mathias Cormann has rejected former Howard government minister Amanda Vantone's warning that Mr Abbott's continued presence will harm the Coalition despite his pledge of no sniping or undermining.
"I don't agree at all that Tony Abbott is a destabilising force," Senator Cormann told ABC television.
"I absolutely believe Tony Abbott will be true to his word and he is being true to his word. I don't believe Tony Abbott is ever a wrecker."
Mr Abbott is always focused on making a positive contribution to the country, said Senator Cormann, who held on to his finance portfolio under Mr Turnbull despite backing Mr Abbott in last year's leadership challenge.
Senator Cormann also says Mr Abbott has not expressed to him a desire to return to the prime ministership.
The West Australian also leapt to the defence of veteran colleagues such as backbenchers Bronwyn Bishop and Philip Ruddock, who are under increasing pressure to leave Parliament and make way for young blood.
"Every one of my colleagues who feels that they continue to have a contribution to make of course should continue to put their hand up," he said.
Ms Vanstone said Mr Abbott's decision to stay in Parliament would result in "lasting, irrevocable grief".
She warned "bitterness will creep in" and he could end up acting on his wounded feelings. She points out the media will be "watching every word" Mr Abbott says for "conflict and controversy".
"Even the best players – and Abbott surely was one of them as opposition leader – have to accept when their day in the sun has gone," she wrote.
Mr Abbott recently announced he would recontest his Sydney seat of Warringah at the next federal election.
In a short statement, Mr Abbott said that after leaving the prime ministership, "I said that I would spend some time talking to family, trusted colleagues and local Liberals about my future. I have been heartened by the support and encouragement I've received to continue to serve the country as a member of Parliament".
"Therefore, I am renominating to represent the people of Warringah for another term as their Liberal MP."
