I'm more than happy to give Bush credit for this actually. Probably doesn't play too well to US audiences but does play quite well for Aussie humour - good natured "cheap-shots" at your mates are fine. From that perspective not rude at all, and I'm sure that's how John took it.
He's a bit hopefull that John will outlast him though - the Aussie election is before the next Us election and I suspect Howard may retire at that stage. Real problem is there isn't really a clear replacement other than the very unpopular Peter Costello.
Im Australian and heard that speech on the radio on the way to work this morning and laughed.......I thought it was funny.
Australians laconic sense of humour is based in laughing at mates from time to time. When people make fun of me I end up laughing with them at myself and most blokes are the same.
We seem to be able to laugh at our own shortcomings which our mates especially after a couple of beers, seem to take much pride and delight in "pisstaking" and exagerating to the max....
I seriously dont think John Howard would have a problem with it, but no doubt the media will portray all kinds of horrors..............hopefully they give John the right of reply so we get his take on it and I would bet my house he will make a statesman like comment which will have a laughing undertone.....
God bless peeps..........Stu