Rule !: "Oppositions don't win, the Government loses"
It does not matter what Latham does or says. Its what Howard does or says. My guess is that Howard may get back in, but only just, by running another fear uncertainty and doubt campaign.
Fear - of terrorism, union power, interest rate rises.
Uncertainty - What is Latham really going to do?
Doubt - Can Latham do it?
Latham has to counter all of this which is not going to be easy. Calling Howard a liar is one thing, but coping with a FUD campaign is another.