Mr Obama made a number of references to Republicans who disagree or have disagreed with the former vice-president's approach to national security.

He referred (although not by name) to former Secretary of State Colin Powell and quoted two Republican senators, Lindsey Graham and John McCain.

And he emphasised that this had been a bipartisan rejection, by referring to the nomination by the American people of presidential candidates from both parties who wanted to turn the page on harsh interrogation techniques.

In a phrase that his political opponents are certain to seize on, Mr Obama said the techniques that were used were "not America".