Can Kim Beazley capitalise in
Parliament this week on the Government’s disunity and disarray,
especially with Peter Costello absent from the fray? Probably not, if
Beazley’s mealy-mouthed response to the Tony Abbott gaffe is any guide.

Beazley
told the media yesterday that Abbott should “consider resigning” over
his silly comments that rubbed salt into Brogden’s very real and very
raw wounds. To paraphrase my grandma: if you can’t say anything
incisive about a political opponent, don’t say anything at all.

Abbott’s
insensitive remarks were not going to get him sacked. John Howard
doesn’t sack anyone for anything these days. So why would an
Opposition leader stand up and display his indecision in public?

Julia
Gillard followed up with stronger words later yesterday, pointing out
that by his comments Abbott was grossly unfit to preside over mental
health issues. Fair enough, but it was too late because Beazley had
squashed the air out of the Opposition’s response with his banal,
do-nothing comments.

If Beazley can’t say anything incisive, he
should shut up. Like those caught in the New Orleans floods, Labor
should head for the high ground. Leave the Liberals to tear themselves
apart, something they’re capable of doing quite well enough
independently.