So he can't even tell the difference between a spade and a shovel? Can't say I'm too surprised.

The Somerset folk singers was a joke that gave a welcome opening into the media for people worried about the plans for licensing "reforms", and it worked. Any antagonism to Howells over that was tongue in cheek.

What got people angry with him was his refusal to do his homework properly and his inability to be honest about what his legislation in fact involved, or to admit mistakes even when they had been forced to correct them.

It isn't because of his straight talking that he generates antagonism, but because of his refusal to talk straight.