We Liberal Democrats believe in dialogue. We believe in cooperation with both sides of industry and between both sides of industry. And we believe in the language of cooperation. We reject the language of confrontation.

For any new leader of any party at any given time it takes time if you are not in government to establish yourself.

I couldn't imagine a day without music. It relaxes and stimulates me in equal measure and I hate the sound of silence - the concept, I mean, not the track by Simon and Garfunkel.

I believe that access to a university education should be based on the ability to learn, not what people can afford. I think there is no more nauseating a sight than politicians pulling up the ladder of opportunity behind them.

My health is good and it's up to me to keep it that way.

It is true that I entered parliament at the age of 23, and have now been representing the people of my constituency for over twenty years.

Yes, you need substance in politics - but I think your style also says something about how you arrive at some of your conclusions.