I know this isn't a widespread view in the Anglo Saxon world, but I believe that much of the reconciliation between more centralized governance and the scope for democracy - democratic control - will be resolved through an even stronger role of the European Parliament.

I believe that reforms will not really take hold if they do not gradually come into the culture of the people.

I don't believe we're seeing the beginning of a divergence. We have seen a partial divergence on this case.

All I am saying is I will be a senator - should there be any special circumstance where the political forces would believe that there might be a need for my service, I would consider it.