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On the surface at least, the argument for removing Julia Gillard as leader of the Labor Party and, therefore, as Prime Minister of Australia, seems simple enough. Opinion polls show she is deeply unpopular, with support for Labor slipping below 30 per cent. If these figures are sustained, Labor faces electoral oblivion. So, the argument goes, it's time for Ms Gillard to step aside, making room for the assumed successor, Kevin Rudd. This needs to happen soon, so Mr Rudd can re-establish himself as leader before the election, which can be held as late as November 30 next year.