Tony Abbot continues with his mantra of ‘Stop the Boats’, once again demonising the defenceless and making potlitical capital from their plight. As if those fleeing the ravages of war and persecution are anything but deserving of democracy’s protection. This is as illogical and spiteful as demonising the victims of accidents or natural disasters. Actually, perhaps it’s even worse. That victims of war and oppression are burdened by the scorn and intolerance of people in relatively free, wealthy countries is odious and craven.

Errr, hang on a sec Mr Abbott: what would you do if you and your family were awakened by the armies of the night? Would you not seek sanctuary and shelter?