Andrews backs Abbott and 'Gillard'

If talk of a spill reminds you of a certain ex-prime minister who fought three leadership battles, you're not alone.

Defence Minister Kevin Andrews was asked if he backed Prime Minister Tony Abbott's political judgment, and his response was telling.

"I believe that the team of Tony Abbott and Julie Gillard is the best leadership team for the Liberal party, and therefore part of the best leadership team of the coalition for the country," Mr Andrews told reporters on Friday.

Former Labor leader Julia Gillard became prime minister after contesting a leadership spill against Kevin Rudd in 2010. She survived an attempt to unseat her in 2012, and lost to Mr Rudd in 2013.

Julie Bishop is deputy Liberal leader and foreign minister.