Ah! R0bert, politics is a dirty game, its not fair, and its certainly not a noble pursuit, although it can be rewarding for some, disappointing for others. The PM more than anyone else is a target, his every word, every action, is open to scrutiny. Having in the past delt with many politicians, and aspiring politicians, the vast majority are genuine decent people. Relative newcomers are often full of enthusiasm for the job, they are going to make a difference! The reality is somewhat different, the constrains placed on a politician by the party, the media and the general public is enormous.

Having been privileged to have met and chattered with four prime ministers in the past. In order who did I consider the most congenial as human beings 1 Bill McMahon, 2 Gough Whitlam, 3 Malcolm Fraser, 4 Bob Hawke. Who made the best politicians 1 Bob Hawke, 2 Malcolm Fraser, 3 Gough Whitlam 4 Bill McMahon, complete opposite.

Once talking with a State MP of some years standing. I questioned the general insincerity of most politicians, he simply said "If you're not a C in politics you can't succeed!" (well away from ear short of anyone else of course). Being young an naive that matter of fact response sort of shocked me, but years later I came to accept it.