He started scaling back French troop contingents in Africa, and in a famous speech gave deep offence on the continent, when he basically said it was time Africans started doing things for themselves.

BBC: France and Mali: An 'ironic' relationship

For the Conservatives it is easier to see the headline attraction of going further on welfare (although hard, Nick Boles' speech suggests how: deep into tax credits and benefits).

BBC: A tough end to a tough week for Nick Clegg

Curiously Mr Obama devoted the beginning of his speech to arguing that a plan that contained deep cuts without tax rises was unfair.

BBC: Low viciousness and high drama