The political health of Britain has deteriorated very sharply. The Conservative Party must do something about it. I am the man to do it.

I am getting frustrated by the fact that we have been out of office for eight years. I desperately want to lead the Conservative Party to make quicker progress back into power.

I am sorry to upset my colleagues by saying we wasted four years in opposition, but if you do get so badly defeated as a party you do have to face up to some painful facts and you do have to change.

I don't think at my age... you can start ruling people out in politics.

It would be immoral to walk away from the consequences of our actions, leaving behind anarchy and civil war in Iraq.

I look forward to the day when the Westminster Parliament is just a council chamber in Europe

I have acquired a deep and abiding respect for all those engaged in the difficult business of commerce.