I've learned one thing in politics. You don't take a decision until you have to.

But because we accept the sanctity of life, the responsibility that comes with freedom and the supreme sacrifice of Christ expressed so well in the hymn: 'When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of Glory died. My richest gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride.'

... when a big man has a big idea I never like to stand in his way.

Naturally, it is with some temerity that the pupil speaks before the master, because you know more about the Common Market than anybody.

I don't know what I would do without Whitelaw. Everyone should have a Willy.

It is always important in matters of high politics to know what you do not know. Those who think they know, but are mistaken, and act upon their mistakes, are the most dangerous people to have in charge.

A man who, beyond the age of 26, finds himself on a bus can count himself as a failure.