I've always told the truth. I've often been wrong - but I've never knowingly lied. Not in public life. Because I don't see the need to.

I loathe and detest all this trivialisation of politics.

Ed Miliband doesn't give a damn about what he looks like, how he dresses. He came into politics to change society.

I never came into life with any favours or privileges.

I became a councillor back in 1971, so if by this stage in politics I'm making lots of big mistakes, then I shouldn't be here.

When I was leader of the GLC, by the time I had been in control for three years, the difference in pay between the cleaner and the director general was a four-to-one ratio. I find that attractive.

I go all around London advocating lesbian and gay rights.