Well written, Rowan: We may be kindred spirits in some sense of the word.
As for the politics. If memory serves me, Mr Howard is running a Coalition Government. I used to be died in the wool Labour (Democrat) but have since learned to go with the flow. If the party in power runs a reasonable show, I'm happy. I think I see more clearly now that I've dropped the whole "Party Loyalty" thing.
Here's hoping for the future and thanks to all of you who manage to discuss such issues without taking offence.
Cheers!
Jim