Abbott resists Joyce resignation calls

Barnaby Joyce was absent from Tony Abbott's side for a second time as the prime minister went out to spruik the agriculture white paper.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott (pic) says Barnaby Joyce is doing an outstanding job. (AAP)

Prime Minister Tony Abbott says Barnaby Joyce is doing an "outstanding" job and won't lose his position as agriculture minister.

There have been calls for Mr Joyce to resign over his criticism of the government's approval of the $1 billion controversial Chinese-owned coal mine in his NSW electorate.

"He is doing an outstanding job - he is passionate, committed, knowledgeable," Mr Abbott told reporters at a NSW farm on Monday.