Thanks Shambles and DMcG, I had a feeling that the truth would be in that area somewhere between "he is a good bloke" and "someone that at least speaks his mind and has an opinion".

Both are potentially admirable qualities. Gareth, can you add to that for me? I did see your 25th Sept comments and though they have little consequence to me personally, at the other side of the country, I can see that in Wales, they are seen as good works by your local MP.

As a good local MP, is the problem with KH then one of taking him beyond his area of knowledge/experience/expertise? (this seems to be where Shambles finds his frustration with KH) Is this then made worse by his tendency to be opinionated? (in other circumstance an admirable quality).

Perhaps the "missing factor" is one of being able to adapt to being at Ministerial level, be able to run a department, be able to quickly sort out the conflicting advice, make politically sensitive decisions. All essential qualities for a minister in government and sometimes very different qualities from those needed by an effective local MP. Am I getting close?

Again, please note, I am NOT trying to simply "rubbish" KH or attack those who admire him. I am looking at this as say a manager would look at the performance of an employee, one who has had success and has support, but is having problems.

More data please!! :-)