THERE are times when people in responsible positions in public life are so unbelievably stupid that it is right to question whether they are fit to carry on in their jobs.

And, although 2006 is still in its early stages, Liberal Democrat MP Mark Oaten is certainly an early contender for the most stupid man of the year award, with slippery England coach Sven Goran Eriksson in the runners-up spot.

Did Mr Oaten, who recently put himself in the frame for the leadership of his party, really believe that his visits to a male prostitute would not come to the surface?

When he told the country that he had no skeletons in his closet, other than a penchant for chocolate, did he really believe he would not be exposed as a liar and a hypocrite?

Party spokesmen have rushed to suggest that it is wrong for the media to focus on Mr Oaten's private life. Lembit Opek, who fronted Mr Oaten's leadership bid, insisted yesterday that the Winchester MP's personal problems did not have to be a bar to being a successful politician.

That just shows how out of touch politicians have become. How can a man who has so shamelessly lied to his family, children, party, colleagues, and the British people ever be trusted with anything?

It is for the people of Winchester to decide whether they can forgive Mr Oaten for his quite astounding stupidity, lack of judgement and recklessness. But it is asking a great deal.