What chance have they got against a tie and a crest?

Of course, everybody knows that tact and diplomacy are important qualities to possess for anyone wishing to enter the delicate world of international relations.

With that in mind, many of those currently following David "direct" Cameron's first prime ministerial trip to strengthen trade links in the Middle East, would be well within their rights to be somewhat taken aback by the rather frank nature of his comments. Not least in India where where he spoke of neighbouring Pakistan "promoting the export of terror" and being allowed to "look both ways" on the issue. Crikey!

So, none of the delicate, carefully chosen language of international diplomacy here. Many, including a number of Pakistani dignatories, have been angered and saddened by Cameron's tone of voice and his choice of words. And just as many seem to find his style a refreshing, if surprising, change.

I'm no Tory sympathiser, by any stretch (believe you me), but I must grudgingly admit that I have developed a slight, sneaking admiration of Cameron's willingness to be so upfront. Whether he's making a dreadful mistake, or paving the way for some courageous conversations remains to be seen, but to paraphrase Jeremy Hardy in Blackadder Goes Forth, I've got to admire his balls.

Anyway, what's your take on all this?

Perhaps this might be an opportune moment to remind ourselves of the time Cameron was completely lost for words during an interview with Gay Times (Lazy YouTube Embed alert!). Anyone for a Brokeback Coalition? I think the common parlance here is... LOL LMFAO etc...