So it would seem that Gordon Brown is embarking on another relaunch of his premiership in the New Year.
His most reliable Fleet Street supporters at The Mirror are reporting that he is to go on a "listen to the people" tour.
The report quotes "senior sources" as saying that "the Prime Minister wants to get round the country in January and February to hear the concerns of ordinary people".
If previous experience is anything to go by, his abilities as a listener are hardly exemplary. Did he listen as Chancellor to those who told him not to sell off our gold reserves? And did he take notice of the fact that millions of people voted for parties (including his own) which promised a referendum on the EU Constitution at the last election?
But now, he insists, he wants to listen.
So let's give him a taster of what to expect when he hits the road next month. What do you want to tell Gordon Brown?
