Former prime minister John Howard says Tony Abbott can turn around the Coalition’s political fortunes and win the next election.

The Coalition remains well behind Labor in the polls following last month’s failed leadership spill motion.

Mr Howard told ABC’s Insiders program that the Prime Minister has got what it takes to win the next election.

• Former PM Malcolm Fraser dead at 84
• Six ways Malcolm Fraser changed Australia forever
• In pictures: Malcolm Fraser’s life and career

“When you look at Tony Abbott’s electoral history, what he did in 2010 – almost destroying a first-term government, [which has] not been done since Scullin’s defeat in the 1930s – that was a colossal performance and of course, he won a huge majority last time,” he said.

“I don’t doubt for a moment his political recovery skills and I don’t doubt for a moment his overall political skills.”

In April 2001, the Coalition under Mr Howard was facing annihilation at the ballot box with Labor leading 60 per cent to 40 per cent after preferences, before being returned to office.

Mr Howard said he thinks Mr Abbott has the skill to make a similar political recovery.

“I think you have to have a policy consistency. You also have to isolate your opponent’s weaknesses,” he said.

“One of the reasons we came back was that deep down, people didn’t think Kim Beazley – terrific bloke – stood for anything.

“[There] is a lot of parallels now; I don’t think Bill Shorten stands for anything. One thing that will increasingly being put in the spotlight is the policy acuity of the Labor party.”

The ABC has been told senior ministers discussed and dismissed the possibility of a double dissolution election at two meetings last Monday.

A spokesman for the Prime Minister said “the Government intends to run its full term”.

The next election is due in the middle of next year.