The prime minister's greatest fault in this matter is neither hisnaivety (if that is what it is) about the nature of Mr Desmond's activities nor even his unwillingness to make judgments about those who wish to associate with him.
Sir Bobby Robson claimed Gazza was as "daft as a brush" and his immature behaviour and naivety was excused because it was seen as central to his desire to be the subject of the attention and affection he craved.