The reason that politicians deservedly attract contempt is when they put their desperation to cling to power and influence before what they know is best for the country. Brown's cabinet and most of the Parliamentary Labour Party know that he is simply not up to the job (and indeed knew that before allowing him to become PM, unopposed) - to the point that he is a dangerous liability to the future well-being of the country - yet have preferred to put partisan concerns and personal prospects before the interests of the British citizens.
This may sound naive, but how can one have any sort of regard for people who behave like this, the gutless, lying swine?
"A politician is an arse upon which everything has sat except a man" - e.e. cummings
Oh...
Lee Mack was proficient in the host's seat again. 
