If even the defense reductions, downsizing and disengagement that it envisions come to pass - let alone those in prospect if the cuts associated with the pending sequestration legislation are imposed, the United States will not simply expose its people, allies and vital interests to attack.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Obama's defeatist 'strategy'

If even the defense reductions, downsizing and disengagement that it envisions come to pass - let alone those in prospect if the cuts associated with the pending sequestration legislation are imposed - the United States will not simply expose its people, allies and vital interests to attack.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

Read back that list of coalition disagreements and it reminds you that they were issues on the margins of most voters' concerns whereas there is a surprising degree of cross party agreement on macro-economic policy, welfare cuts and schools reform let alone the proposals the two men will highlight today - be it childcare subsidies, pension reform or road tolls.

BBC: Coalition: Official - it's not a marriage