Christopher Pincher MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP

Here is the latest in our series of Twenty Questions with members of the Class of 2010...

Christopher Pincher was elected MP for Tamworth with a majority of 6.090.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The three day week in 1973.  I remember the power cuts and did not like suddenly being plunged into the dark.  An early taste of union militancy for a four year old.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because…  I believe in government that does not pry into our lives, pick our pockets or undermine our institutions and freedoms.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Theodore Roosevelt – he was a larger than life character who symbolised his America. He had a real sense of his country’s history and where it was going and he wasn’t afraid to take on vested interests.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? About 1996, when I finally decided to apply for a no hope Labour seat.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Newspapers (especially on Sunday mornings), The Spectator, Political Betting, history and biography, most stories by Simon Raven and, of course, ConHome.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Jeremy Paxman – though watching rather than being on the receiving end!

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I suppose it would have to be Energy & Climate Change.  I think we face a clear and present energy security threat in the coming decade, which not only has implications for our defence and foreign policy but live domestic issues such as fuel poverty and the green economy.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Ernie Bevin.  He was a great patriot who showed that through skill and hard work any one can get to the top in Britain – and could even back then.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Jeremy Paxman.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I think I’d prefer the Bull Moose ticket.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? It may sound trite but I really enjoy friends’ company as well as reading, watching grand prix and, when I can, going horse racing.

12. What is your favourite book? The Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

13. What is your favourite film? That’s a difficult one.  Mandy (which has nothing at all to do with the Prince of Darkness), A Canterbury Tale and St Elmo’s Fire are my favourites for different reasons.

14. What is your favourite music? Lots of jazz and big band numbers.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fish and chips at home.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? North Cerney in the Cotswolds.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Helping to get the government that little bit more out of people’s lives.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I collect pens.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. You cannot get further from the sea in England than Tamworth – although Leamington makes the same claim.  Tamworth was also the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. The sight of the shrieking Lib Dem candidate prostrating herself in front of David Cameron’s battle bus and refusing to move – until the bus did!

> Previously: David Nuttall MP