As so often before, on the courage and determination of British men and women, serving our country, the fate of many nations rests.

For me, 9/11 was a game changer. It altered my perception of the security threat we faced. I took the position that Britain should be shoulder to shoulder with the U.S. It was a big decision; I didn't take it lightly, or in ignorance of its consequences. It's a big commitment for a country to give, but I believed it was the right thing to do.

You've got to listen but you've also got to lead.

You only require two things in life: your sanity and your wife.

I may find Saddam Hussein's regime abhorrent - any normal person would - but the survival of it is in his hands.

Today the impulse towards interdependence is immeasurably greater. We are witnessing the beginnings of a new doctrine of international community.

I say to the Taliban: surrender the terrorists; or surrender power. It's your choice.