Member for New England Barnaby Joyce assured communities in the Tamworth region he is focused on 'policy' as assault allegations dominate federal politics

The former deputy prime minister was in Tamworth on Wednesday to announce funding for a specialty rural health nurse at a local fitness centre.

"This is where I am now - we had meetings this morning, we have meetings this afternoon; when I'm in Canberra I'm doing work on behalf of the electorate in Canberra; when I'm in the New England I'm doing work on behalf of the electorate," Mr Joyce told the Leader on Wednesday.

"I didn't come here today to talk about something that's happened to someone else in Canberra, I came here today to talk about what's happening for us here in the New England."

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The reassurance comes after weeks plagued by serious sexual assault and harassment, and rape allegations - not involving Mr Joyce - surrounding parliament.

Mr Joyce has backed calls for an independent inquiry into the allegations, but AAP reported he wants it held behind closed doors to avoid a trial by media.

The National Party MP said despite the serious allegations circulating, he remained focused on making positive changes for communities of the New England electorate.

"I'm focusing on policy, I'm focusing on delivery for the New England, the reason that we are making sure that we are getting bridges built - such as Fishers Bridge - because we are focusing on delivery," Mr Joyce told the Leader.

"The reason we drive home on Dungowan Dam is because we are focusing on delivery; the reason that even today I am driving for a space inquiry to be held in the New England, to be held in Armidale, is because I'm driving for delivery and driving for broadening our economic base.

"These are the things that I am focused on because these are the things that I believe take the people of the New England ahead and give them better opportunity and prosperity - the same prosperity we have been delivering, are delivering and will continue to deliver."

Mr Joyce said he had been spending time in the area lately. He said he had been in Inverell recently, had been in Tamworth this week and was heading to Armidale at the weekend.

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"I try to do the best job I can," he said.

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