Kevin Rudd considering UN job as climate adviser

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon had called Rudd a couple of weeks ago on a role for him on a UN panel role,8217;The Australian8217; said.

The UN panel 8220;might look at a number of issues related to development,8221; a spokesman for Rudd said.

According to reports,Rudd was being considered by the UN for a top-level job as an adviser on climate change.

Ban is considering creating a dedicated role for him as a top-level adviser on climate change,according to a 8220;diplomatic source with knowledge of the plan8221;.

The report,however,said Rudd was under opposition pressure to commit to serving a full term as MP for Griffith if re-elected.

Opposition legal affairs spokesman George Brandis,who last month accompanied Rudd on a parliamentary delegation to US States,said Rudd8217;s 8220;eyes were fixed elsewhere8221; during the trip.

8220;Rudd wasn8217;t thinking about Australia8230; Rudd was thinking about his next career move in Manhattan,8221; Senator Brandis said.

Labor8217;s election campaign spokesman Chris Bowen said 8220;I8217;m aware that Kevin Rudd has said he is recontesting the seat of Griffith and wants to remain a member of the house of representatives8221;.

Bowen added that Rudd was well respected in international circles and the speculation over his likely move was not surprising.

8220;But my understanding of the arrangements is that he wants to stay in parliament and he will stay in parliament should he be re-elected by the people of Griffith8221; he added.