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

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

I'm a lifelong believer in trade unionism.

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.

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

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