Australia: PM Julia Gillard beats Rudd

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Australia: PM Julia Gillard beats Rudd

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Julia Gillard survived a leadership challenge from Kevin Rudd.

27 February,2012 07:01 am

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard on Monday survived a leadership challenge from Kevin Rudd, trouncing the former leader in a damaging battle to head the ruling Labor party, media reported.The nations first female prime minister retained office after smashing Rudd 71-31 in a secret ballot of the 103-member Labor caucus, although only 102 votes were cast. Earlier, media reports said she had won 73-29.The ballot has taken place and Julia Gillard has won the ballot 71 votes to 31, said Chris Hayes, the returning officer.