I should do something about the cigarettes; I quite accept that it's bad for your health, but you know a moderate tipple is positively beneficial and, at certain times, absolutely essential.

Actually, I think it's quite sensible not to take yourself too seriously.

My favourite novel is Frederick Forsythe's Day Of The Jackal, the story about the unproven case of this apparent Englishman who was hired to assassinate De Gaulle….

Politicians are good at saying how Government must do more, but we must also think carefully about where Government should do less.

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 will go out of this world feet first with my Lib Dem membership card in my pocket.

We should have high expectations of our children, but politicians should not tell teachers how to meet them.