I believe that access to a university education should be based on the ability to learn, not what people can afford. I think there is no more nauseating a sight than politicians pulling up the ladder of opportunity behind them.

Actually, I think it's quite sensible not to take yourself too seriously.

Yes, you need substance in politics - but I think your style also says something about how you arrive at some of your conclusions.

The quicker we get rid of the lobby system the better for all of us. I don't think in this day and age it is tenable to have these nods and winks, and on-the-record and off-the-record briefings.

I do think there is a great deal of caricature around the House of Commons. It is just that kind of place.

I think that former leaders are best seen occasionally and not too often heard - particularly on the subject of their successors!

Politicians are good at saying how Government must do more, but we must also think carefully about where Government should do less.