One of the things I've always thought is a drag in so many period adaptations is that they are always buttoned up to the neck in so many clothes all the time. I'm always looking for excuses to get them out of their clothes.

I'd love to adapt more contemporary novels. But there isn't really enough story and character to make a really satisfying serial, so they tend to be single dramas.

I suppose I have the tastes of someone who teaches at a university in the provinces.

The most moving scene for me in 'Pride and Prejudice' is the Pemberley music room scene: Elizabeth has just saved Darcy's sister from embarrassment and confusion, and as the music plays on, Darcy's look of gratitude becomes a look of love, which we see reciprocated in Elizabeth's eyes.

The joy of writing drama is putting yourself into different people's heads.

I'm absolutely delighted if people think of me as a reliable purveyor of quality period stuff.

Novels often have leisurely openings; a TV drama needs an arresting opening.