I think that former leaders are best seen occasionally and not too often heard - particularly on the subject of their successors!

Immigrants provide skills that we simply cannot afford to do without. They have contributed hugely to Britain's success.

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.

There are hard choices to be made in balancing the country's security and an individual's liberties. But it is a choice that has to be faced.

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.

My idealism has not abated, but I have witnessed it withering away nationwide, to the point where at least among the young, to have ideals is akin to being blinkered and oldfashioned.

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.