I think the way things have been left after Iraq is that people won't believe the Government of the day, so they have to know that lessons have been learnt and that all political parties and people, whether they were for or against the invasion of Iraq, have learnt lessons.

Let's not be afraid to speak the common sense truth: you can't have high standards without good discipline.

I have found that I get a better reaction from people once I am less bothered about their reaction.

I'm not, nor is anybody I know in government part of a nasty right wing clique.

How long do Syrian families have to live in fear that their children will be killed or tortured, before the Security Council will act? How many people need to die before the consciences of world capitals are stirred?

You can see over time whether people are prepared to differ or not.

People feel that in too many ways the EU is something that is done to them, not something over which they have a say.