The battle lines for the federal election almost certainly to be held in May next year are clear. Prime Minister Scott Morrison seeks to portray the contest as one over trust, John Howard-like, despite accusations that he plays fast and loose with the truth. Labor’s Anthony Albanese has taken to calling the PM a “liar”, whether it be his dealings with foreign leaders or previous claims on electric vehicles.

In Howard’s case the tactic didn’t work when he was likewise accused during his long prime ministership: think of his “never, ever” GST backflip or committing troops to the 2003 Iraq War.