The former deputy prime minister insisted that benefits claimants are 'not lazy people on the dole' in a clear indication of the pressures the next prime minister will face over defence spending.

Behind-the-scenes lobbying has been ramping up with a focus on who will get the prized roles in Cabinet.

The former deputy prime minister insisted that benefits claimants are 'not lazy people on the dole' in a clear indication of the pressures the next prime minister will face over…