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The Menzies Research Centre’s Nick Cater says he is concerned Liberal MP Tim Smith hasn’t been allowed “a chance for redemption”.

“We used to think that politicians had a chance to redeem themselves if they were truly contrite and made mistakes and would come back stronger and better politicians as a result,” Mr Cater told Sky News host Sharri Markson.

“I just worry that nowadays, we just don’t allow them that opportunity – because we’re in an era where if somebody makes a mistake that’s their entire character that’s tarnished and they’re considered unfit for public life.”