Courage is a peculiar kind of fear.

If you were to describe me as teetotal, on behalf of my constituency I'd have to sue; that would lose me every vote in the Highlands.

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

I'm not someone who dwells upon past events, taking the view that life is too short

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.

Paddy Ashdown is the only party leader who's a trained killer. Although, to be fair, Mrs Thatcher was self taught.

The one thing we can all be sure about in politics is you are as well to expect the unexpected.