Not a Labor supporter however caught Latham on his tour in 2004 and was impressed with his ability to "connect" with people.I have read the Diaries and while not surprised I was disapointed that intelligent people cannot take the lessons from this.

They wanted a leader ( and so do I ) someone who will cut through the bull and deliver a public service to the public.....to do this they need to be passionate - anyone that shines it seems will have that extinguished quickly - healthy and robust debate and differences should be encouraged.
It is Labor's loss with Latham leaving the team.
At the moment there is little coming from Canberra other than a new focus recently observed from Stott Despoja.
This is where the Australian's were when Pauline Hansen was able to ride the wave of the disatisfied voters who work , pay taxes at 30%, raise a family , believe in something if not the church , middle to lower income , mortgage and stressed.