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.

Politics is much too serious to be taken too seriously; equally, there are many aspects of it so laughable as to be lamentable.

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

There stands no contradiction between giving voice to legitimate anxiety and at the same time, as and when exchange of fire commences, looking to the rest of the country, as well as all of us in the House, to give full moral support to our forces.

Music and politics are in essence about communication. Without over-stretching the analogy I do feel a sense of rhythm is important in getting your message across.

I have never once been persuaded as to the causal link between the Iraqi regime, al-Qaeda and September 11. I do believe the impact of war under these circumstances is bound to weaken the international coalition against terrorism itself.

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.