Andrew Gimson interviews Owen Paterson, who says of the EU: "My view is very clear. I’d like to make laws in our own Parliament."

By Andrew Gimson
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Owen Paterson exudes enormous relish for the political fight. His manner is that of an abrasive colonel who has taken command of a regiment which he is working round the clock to bring to the highest pitch of efficiency, so it can achieve the victories of which he knows it to be capable.

The Environment Secretary is energetic, optimistic, keen to deploy the latest technology and scornful of rival, less professional outfits: in this interview he speaks of the “utter cretinous incompetence” of the Labour leadership.

To Paterson, speaking one’s mind is more than a duty: it is a pleasure. This lends him a directness, and hence an authenticity, which are seldom found in the mealy-mouthed world of modern politics. He enjoys confronting ignorant townies with the facts of rural life, including the need to kill vermin.

Such provocations conceal a streak of caution. Paterson does not like to do battle until he is ready. Before his bold speech this week in favour of GM food, which we analysed yesterday, he ensured that he had a complete grasp of the subject.