It’s election countdown time, and earlier today we saw the first tv debate ( of three ) starring PM Kevin Rudd and opposition leader Tony Abbott

Current opinion polls put Abbott’s Liberal-National coalition in the lead but Labour has narrowed its lead since Rudd returned to office in June.

And while his party lags behind Rudd is seen by polls as Australians’ preferred choice as PM.

I’m sure Eamonn will have something to say on the opening clash when he signs in later, but in the meantime here’s a couple of takes from the UK

BBC

The Independent

Rudd & Abbott ho head to head 12 August 2013

The Rudd & Abbott Show