Newspolls not a test of leadership: PM

Support of the party room is the only test that matters says Malcolm Turnbull as the prospect of 30 successive Newspoll losses looms.

The prime minister isn't expected to step down if that 30th consecutive loss comes, despite him using that as a reason to overthrow former Liberal leader Tony Abbott.

"As far as the leadership of the Liberal Party is concerned it is, as John Howard always said, in the gift of the party room. That's the test," he told ABC's 7.30 program.

Mr Turnbull evaded questions on whether he would stand down or open a leadership spill, but said when he challenged Mr Abbott the polls were just one factor he identified.

"The country, the government needed new economic leadership, right? And it needed a return to traditional cabinet government," he said.

"I have delivered both."

Mr Abbott said last week it would be up to Mr Turnbull to explain why the Newspoll test was right for one leader and not for the other if he decides it doesn't apply this time around.

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