Howard's image in full retreat
Edition 1SUN 30 MAR 1997, Page 123 Howard's image in full retreat By RICHARD FARMER JOHN Howard is not blessed with any of the normal physical attributes of a charismatic politician, but during his long career in the House of Representatives he has shown a willingness to make the best of what he has. Look at a picture of a smiling Mr Howard 20 years ago and compare it with one today. You'll see a triumph of the dentist's art. Study the before and after eyebrows, and note the difference. Clearly on display is a politician prepared to allow some minor cosmetic artistry to improve on nature's handiwork. And quite sensibly, too. In this television age, the distraction of physical oddity is sufficient to overshadow the power of any words uttered. Look too unusual, and it doesn't matter how sensible a politician is. Having decided that he wanted to give becoming Prime Minister a go, it was a natural step for Mr Howard to put himself forward in the most attractive ligh