from the ABC …..

Howard reflects on 'very bad' poll result

Prime Minister John Howard says today's Newspoll result is very negative for his Government.

Support for the Government has fallen in the Newspoll, despite last week's Budget, with Labor increasing its lead to 18 per cent on a two-party preferred basis.

The Coalition has polled 41 per cent to Labor's 59 per cent on a two-party preferred basis.

Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd has increased his lead over Mr Howard as the preferred prime minister to 12 points. Mr Rudd has garnered 49 per cent support, while the Prime Minister is on 37 per cent.

The Opposition's primary votes are up two points to 50 per cent.

Mr Howard says he never expected an instant boost from the Budget.

"I can read polls," he said.