The argument that in a time of crisis experience in government is a necessary qualification for high office has some appeal, but it is not a conclusive reason for choosing a leader. This question became a focus of Britain's two main political parties recently at their respective annual conferences.

Gordon Brown, the British prime minister and leader of the Labour Party, claimed that this was no time for a novice (such as the leader of the opposition) or an apprentice (hinting at some of his rivals in the party who have been reported as plotting to remove him) to assume high office. Experience in dealing with economic problems was needed.

Brown has 10 years experience as finance minister, and while he was in charge of public finances, Britain enjoyed a period of unprecedented prosperity. Difficulties at present are the result of external factors including the American subprime disaster, which has affected banks everywhere, and the rise in energy and food prices, which is due to the huge rise in demand in China, India and other developing economies. His experience and steady hand are assets that could not be replaced by newcomers.