Overwhelming case for tax reform: Howard

John Howard says there's a long-term benefit in the government altering the tax mix.

Former prime minister John Howard says the Turnbull government should raise the GST. (AAP)

Former prime minister John Howard says there's an overwhelming case for the Turnbull government to raise the GST.

"The argument for the change in the tax mix at some time in the future - and it's a matter for the government to decide when - I think is overwhelming," Mr Howard told The Australian on Saturday.

But Mr Howard concedes there are "medium-term or short-term tactical political considerations" in the decision not to pursue a hike in the consumption tax.