No action, only explanations - this was the 'consensus' among Umno supreme council members in deciding how the party should deal with its former president and premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad's criticism of the current administration.

Several leaders who attended today's supreme council meeting were polled for their views.

Muhyiddin Yassin, vice-president

We will give a detailed explanation to Tun (Mahathir) based on facts, in relation to his questions. The explanation will be made just as (was done during) the issue of (national car) Proton - in written form.

What is important is the content of the explanation and facts to prevent any confusion from occurring. We want to give accurate and correct statements.

Rafidah Aziz, Wanita head

(Responding to the question: When do you intend to explain the controversy over the approved permits (APs)?)

We have given explanations on the AP issue in Parliament and at the (Umno) annual general meeting. We don't have anything to add.

We have given all the explanations, so no more... we will go down to the grassroots to explain. I have even written to (Mahathir), but if they want (me) to put it formally, we can give (him) the same information again.

Noraini Ahmad, Puteri Umno head

(On why there were several Puteri Umno banners outside of Umno headquarters)

Apart from making a statement, it is a way of showing the prime minister (Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) that we really support him and stand behind him.

We in Puteri Umno have always believed that we should have only one leader, so we are all behind him. Even though Puteri Umno was formed under Mahathir's leadership, this doesn't mean we don't respect him (Mahathir).

Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, supreme council member

(Has your perception of Mahathir changed?)

Our respect to him has never eroded. He used to advise me before (during the sacking of ex-deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim) not to throw stones at glass houses, but he (Mahathir) is throwing a bigger stone now.

(Will any action be taken against Mahathir?)

No need for action, we only need to give him an explanation.

A poll conducted by the information ministry showed that the rakyat is supportive of the prime minister and are happy with government responses. They only ask questions such as why the electricity tariff was increased, etc.

Shahrir Abdul Samad, supreme council member

(Why has Umno come out strongly to say there is no faction within the part? Is this an issue?)

Perhaps (it is due to) some speculation that Mahathir has an intention to divide the party. This brings into question the position and support of the party president and prime minister. Some people think this is a crisis, but I don't think it is.

(On the government's replies to Mahathir)

(It is important) for the public to know, we must make the public understand what the issues are about, and not (emphasise on) Mahathir. Mahathir's happiness is not what we are concerned about.