Hey, big spender: Howard the king of the loose purse strings This will undoubtedly not end the frothing at the mouth on both sides of the house about the most holy surplus. But it sure does put a few things in perspective, and in ways we economic mortals can grasp. Worth some reflection by us all, and not least those of my friends who bang on incessantly about the profligacy of all Labor governments. Oh by the way, it might mean we can afford to toss a few bob more in the overseas aid tin afterall, Mr Swan?