Philo,

It's about being honest with those who you want to vote for you. Leaving aside John Howard role as Prime Minister he is the elected representative of the those who live in his seat. If he wants the to vote for him, then he needs to be able to commit to doing the job.

Saying that its alright for him because the other side does it, doesn't cut any ice.

James, have you ever heard of a bloke named Beattie?

James, "It's about being honest with those who you want to vote for you." - a refusal to rule out something you might do is not dishonest. Voters in Bennelong are not being given a false assurance that he will stay no matter what.

You are correct when you point out that the other side doing the same does not make it right but the claimed moral outrage over Howards handling of the truth by those who don't like him looks rather hollow when the similar outrage is not directed by them at leaders on their own side of politics who do the same.

R0bert

James Purser,
Can you tell me when The Prime Minister John Howard said he would retire? Can you tell me when he has lied about his retirement? I have not seen any violation of his word that would identify his dishonesty as you claim. For you to make such a claim is misinformation and I would consider you as deliberately dishonest, and misrepresenting of our Prime Minister.

I believe you want to run for Parliament. With such dihonesty I trust the voters know your record on honesty.

The question that ought to be asked is: Does the ALP front team match or better the Coalition team to govern Australia.
Philo,
the answer to your question is NO. It's a historical fact.

Philo,

Seriously mate, have a look at his statement that he would consider his retirement sometime in the next term if he was elected again.

If you're going to accuse me of misrepresentation then at least get your facts straight.

As I've said before I do not like any politician who commits to serving a term and then drops out for less than valid reasons. It shows a disrespect towards their electorate that should not be tolerated. And yes that includes people like Beattie.