Solidarity and interdependence, a sense of worth, a pride and hope in the future: these are positive gains for those who believe in progressive politics and the beneficial role of government, rather than a detriment.

Strengthening our identity is one way or reinforcing people's confidence and sense of citizenship and well-being.

I have built my reputation on honesty, I have sometimes been too honest.

I did not in late November start the plethora of linking my private life with public events again.

It would be dangerous territory if I wasn't practising what I preach which is to always accept responsibility, always accept the consequences of your actions.

We have put over £2bn in the last three years into counter-terrorism and we are developing the electronic border surveillance and identity cards

I said it's impossible to have an amnesty without ID cards and a clean database, because you firstly don't have any incentives for people to actually come up front and register, and make themselves available, and secondly you have no means of tracking them.