Anthony Albanese’s decision to halve the fuel excise for the next three months is economically irresponsible, damaging to the budget bottom line and will put significant pressure on interest rates. It’s also the right thing to do for ordinary Australians struggling with spiralling petrol prices and a smart move, politically, as it buys the federal government some time while Donald Trump’s war with Iran plays out. For Australians feeling the pain at the bowser, the 26¢-a-litre cut and the suspension of the heavy vehicle road user charge for truckies comes just in time for road trips over the Easter long weekend. In practical terms, the excise cut means a 65-litre tank of petrol will cost about $20 less, a significant saving and welcome cost-of-living relief. The prime minister’s low-key delivery throughout this crisis has been deliberate: Albanese is trying to assuage the fears of anxious Australians with a calm, methodical style – almost boring – throughout the last month’s shortages.…