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.'
