Rudd shifts leadership rumbling to economy

(AAP) - The focus of political debate in Australia should be on the impact of the global economical situation rather than the leadership of the Labor government, Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd says.
"I'm a member of the cabinet, I support the decisions therefore of the government," Mr Rudd told reporters in New York on Friday (AEST).
"And I would just think it would be a good thing if everyone seriously had a cup of tea and a Bex and a long lie-down."
Speculation on the leadership has been rife this week after coalition senator Nigel Scullion said Mr Rudd had called Labor senator Trish Crossin to canvas support for a challenge to Prime Minister Julia Gillard.
Senator Scullion's version of events has been labelled a fabrication by Senator Crossin, but the opposition has seized his remarks.
Mr Rudd said the state of the global economy was more important than the leadership talk.
"That's where the focus should be, that's where mine is and it will continue to be as well."
Referring to an exchange of letters between Ms Gillard and Mr Rudd's office about urging him to limit his travel expenses was standard government practice, Mr Rudd said.
"These are standard requirements of all ministers that engaging in what you do that you minimise your expenses," he said.
"That's exactly what I would have done and did do when I was prime minister of Australia as well."
Mr Rudd said he made no apologies for the travel he did as foreign minister.
Mr Rudd said "when this little bunny travels around the world" he made it a point to stay at Australian embassies or residences when possible to reduce costs.