KEVIN Rudd has thrown down a second audacious election gauntlet, this time challenging Prime Minister John Howard to three formal election debates.

In another political milestone, he has demanded for the first time they be aired on YouTube.

Mr Rudd answered any doubts over whether he had officially launched Labor's election campaign at the weekend by issuing a formal request yesterday for not just one debate - but a series.

Meanwhile, Mr Howard tried to cast aside continuing doubts over his leadership, describing reports he intended to resign and hand over leadership to Treasurer Peter Costello on Tuesday as rubbish.

As Parliament resumes for the last time before the election, Mr Howard will be forced to respond to an increasingly bold Labor leader's call for three debates to be conducted live on the internet.

Mr Rudd has called for one, at least, to provide interactive participation through YouTube.

He also wants to replicate former British PM Tony Blair's novel approach of having an "in the round" style contest where the leaders are presented on a podium surrounding on all sides by a live audience.

There were no demands, however, on the appearance of the "worm".

With Mr Howard still to call an election, Mr Rudd has for the second time in as many days attempted to set his own election agenda and timetable. And it is clear where he thinks his strengths lie.

While incumbents usually have the most to lose during debates, such a prospect would be amplified for Mr Howard with the participation of an internet literate generation.

ALP national secretary and campaign director Tim Gartrell has written to his Liberal counterpart Brian Loughnane outlining Labor's proposal for a minimum of three leaders' debates to be held on three Sundays during the campaign.He has demanded at least one involve live on-line participation via YouTube or a comparable format.

Mr Loughnane responded by issuing a press release: "Thank you for your note regarding the debate between party leaders at the coming election.

"I will be touch with you regarding debate arrangements once the campaign has commenced."

News Limited