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5 Sep 2010 06:16:23

Harriett Baldwin 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...

Harriett Baldwin was elected MP for West Worcestershire with a majority of 6,854.

1. What is your earliest political memory? We were evacuated from our home in Nicosia, Cyprus to the Royal Air Force Base at Dekalia because there was a Turkish invasion scare.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe individuals and families can be trusted to make responsible decisions if government creates the right framework.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? It's got to be Winston Churchill as he kept Britain free from tyranny.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? After Labour's second General Election victory when Gordon Brown decided to depart from Conservative spending plans and grow public spending faster than the economy. I was managing pension funds and had seen him destroy a pension system that used to be the envy of the world.

5. What is your reading material of choice? I read French and Russian literature at University, so now I am playing catch up with biographies and history books..

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? I think Evan Davis on the Today programme is very incisive as he understands economics.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I stood for election [successfully] to the Work and Pensions Select Committee as I think we have an urgent need to reform benefits to create better incentives for people to work and save.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? I thought Robert Rubin was a fine US Democratic Treasury Secretary who realised that bringing the deficit under control helped create the conditions for strong private sector growth and national prosperity.

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

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Walking the dog, swimming or the gym.

12. What is your favourite book? War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy.

13. What is your favourite film? The Godfather: Parts I and II

14. What is your favourite music? Mozart opera.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Christmas dinner with the whole family, preferably at my brother's as he is a professionally trained chef.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Anywhere with the family.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? The conditions for an economic recovery.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I have read War and Peace in the original.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. The view from the Malvern Hills has been voted England's best view.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. My surprise when I learned that my Constituency Chairman was led away from a Nick Clegg rally in Malvern by special branch.

> Previously: Nadhim Zahawi MP

Sunday, September 05, 2010 in Class of 2010, Harriett Baldwin MP | Permalink | Comments (2)

4 Sep 2010 07:00:00

Nadhim Zahawi 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...

Nadhim Zahawi was elected MP for Stratford-on-Avon with a majority of 11,346.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Being accosted by a member of the Socialist Workers Party at university. He was handing out magazines and couldn’t understand why I didn’t want to take one and decided to get physical. It was that confrontation that made me decide to see what the other side thought.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I was lucky enough to be given British freedom and opportunity when my family fled persecution in Iraq and came to the UK, and it is that freedom of choice and opportunity to achieve that I believe that the Conservative Party stands for.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Is it too obvious to say Thatcher? Also Iain Macleod for his fantastic oratory and powers of description. He is credited with having come up with the term 'nanny state' in 1965 and also the term 'stagflation'.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? When I joined the party in Putney in the 1980s, it was something I thought I would be interested in doing at some point in the future.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Obviously my local paper the Stratford Herald on a weekly basis, and I read the Sun, Telegraph, the Economist and Mail online as well as ConHome every day.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? On radio, John Humphrys; on television, I have been really impressed with Gavin Esler lately, he has been very good on Newsnight, and seems to be particularly balanced.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Business, Innovation and Skills: business is my background so it seems an obvious choice. I’ve had the entire business experience from being two men in a shed that no bank would lend to, right up to running a multinational company listed on the stock exchange - having that kind of real experience in the department is a good thing. The recovery will be driven by us making more things and selling them to the world. We breed the best engineers in the world, you only have to look at Formula 1 to believe that, yet sadly we tend to lose too many to overseas companies. They also struggle to get backing in the UK for their ideas and inventions.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Senator Bill Bradley, who stood as a Democratic presidential nominee in 2000. He was a Hall of Fame Basketball player and credited with always knowing where on the court his team mates and opposition were and he carried that over to his political career as well. That sense of position is crucial in politics.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Anyone who thinks the size of Government is about right.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Spending time with my family, we just had a great holiday together visiting Disneyland.

12. What is your favourite book? Perfume by Patrick Suskind

13. What is your favourite film? The Godfather: Part II

14. What is your favourite music? I don’t really collect music, but I do enjoy listening to the radio and music in general. My tastes are quite eclectic: I think the new Eminem album is fantastic, but I also enjoy listening to work by Benjamin Britten.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? In London, Japanese food at Zuma; in the constituency anything from the Barasset Barn.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? The medieval village of Monterchi near Arezzo.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? To have tackled some of the pressing issues in the constituency which I promised to deliver on during the campaign and to do a decent job on the BIS Select Committee.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. Considering my size you wouldn’t believe that I’m quite useful on a horse.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Everyone obviously knows that the great Bard is from Stratford on Avon, but few people know that Kissing Tree House, in Alveston, was the home of another great writer, J. B. Priestley.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. I had been invited to visit The Cottage of Content, a local village pub in Barton, by a member of the public who had warned me in advance that the locals there weren’t too keen on me. I arrived late in the evening after a long day campaigning and as I opened the door and walked in it felt like the entire place went silent and everyone turned to look at me. It may not have been that way but it certainly felt like it. It’s that bloke with the funny name and the tan from London who thinks he can be our MP, I imagined them all thinking. Quite a few beers had already been had by all and the opposition to me as the candidate was very strong, that was until we all started talking. By the end of the night the stony reception had gone and the pub was certainly living up to its name.

> Previously: Zac Goldsmith MP

Saturday, September 04, 2010 in Class of 2010, Nadhim Zahawi MP | Permalink | Comments (10)

3 Sep 2010 06:29:05

Zac Goldsmith 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...

Zac Goldsmith was elected MP for Richmond Park with a majority of 4,091.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Being confused when a staff member at my school celebrated the Tory’s win over the Conservatives.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… Conservatives traditionally understand the role (and limits) of the state.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Edmund Burke, a true conservative, not afraid of being unpopular, environment-minded and a believer in fairness and small Government.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? 2004.

5. What is your reading material of choice? BBC News website.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Andrew Neil.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? DEFRA – our beautiful landscape deserves protection, and our food security from farming and fishing will one day be key.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Kate Hoey, Frank Field.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Where do I start?

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Reluctant Democrat – Both groups are uninspiring, but the Republicans are hopeless on the environment.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Switch off the machines and play with the children.

12. What is your favourite book? The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas.

13. What is your favourite film? The Man Who Would be King.

14. What is your favourite music? Gypsy music.

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

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Devon.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Push successfully for direct democracy, so that people can bypass politicians and make decisions for themselves.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. When I first canvassed, it was for the Referendum Party in 1997.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Richmond Park has more ancient trees than all of Germany and France combined.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. A policeman removed a roll-up cigarette directly from my mouth, and replaced it with one of his own less-suspicious looking pre-fabs, saying "we don’t want any unhelpful pictures, do we?!"

> Previously: Richard Harrington MP

Friday, September 03, 2010 in Class of 2010, Zac Goldsmith MP | Permalink | Comments (13)

2 Sep 2010 06:26:07

RIchard Harrington 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...

Richard Harrington was elected MP for Watford with a majority of 1,425.

1. What is your earliest political memory? At the 1974 school mock election, I was the Communist candidate - typical 16-year-old behaviour! I joined the Conservative Party two years later.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe it is only the Conservatives that can provide the environment for the individual to prosper. It is only individuals prospering that will generate an economy large enough to really help those that need it.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Has to be Churchill, because of his leadership powers, and the ability to unify and motivate people - in modern parlance, the quality to make people believe they can do it.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? Increasing anger from 1997 about the near disappearance of party organisation in seats we had held since 1979. Even by 2005 little had changed. I wanted to have the opportunity in a small way to show that this did not always have to be the case.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Has to be newspapers and magazines - The Telegraph and The Economist. And political biographies I'm afraid.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Dermot O'Leary - because he appeals to young people.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Business - to make direct use of 30 years' experience of running small and larger businesses; or DWP - because of the effect its role has on so many people's lives.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Historically, James Keir Hardie; more recently I would say John Reid.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Eric Pickles and Nicholas Soames - with the three of us in it, it would need a lot of people in the winching party!

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Democrat.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? An evening out with my family in Brighton - my second favourite place in the world (the first begins with 'W' and ends in 'd').

12. What is your favourite book? The Hidden Persuaders by Vance Packard. Out of print, I think, but it shows how advertising shapes all of our lives

13. What is your favourite film? Animal House.

14. What is your favourite music? The Who, Bruce Springsteen.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Japanese. Eaten in Japan by the fish market in Tokyo.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Brighton in the UK; USA abroad.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Do something to actually be a part of implementing our Programme and see its effects improving people's lives in Watford.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I had a market stall when I was 16.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Despite being less than twenty miles from London, it is treated by the party and the Government as part of Eastern Region, which it has absolutely nothing in common with, neither politically, economically or socially. I find this absolutely absurd.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. Many panics, many overreactions, highs and lows. I had a lunch with Clarkson and AA Gill, at the height of 'Cleggmania', Clarkson told anyone who wanted an autograph or a picture, that he would if they could name one LibDem policy. Not one could!

> Previously: Marcus Jones MP

Thursday, September 02, 2010 in Class of 2010, Richard Harrington MP | Permalink | Comments (14)

1 Sep 2010 06:13:56

Marcus Jones 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...

Marcus Jones was elected MP for Nuneaton with a majority of 2,069.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The 1987 General election.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe in the virtues, of freedom of choice, personal responsibility, a smaller state and the creation of a culture of enterprise.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? Winston Churchill A fantastic statesman who showed such strength in times of such adversity.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? Other than it being a distant ambition, when the Nuneaton candidate (Simon Rouse) stood down in 2008.

5. What is your reading material of choice? The Times and The Telegraph.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Patrick Burns (Political editor BBC West Midlands) - regardless of subject he is a gentleman.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? At present Communities and Local Government. This is based on my experience as a councillor and my conviction that Government interference, the plethora of targets and middle-men have actually bloated Local Government to the extreme. In some cases services have deterioriated at a time when the cost to the council tax payer has soared. This has been due more to Government diktat rather than local councillors who have been caught in a web of satisfying Government and auditors rather than their own electorate. I think that in the main, Eric Pickles and team are actually setting about the task of addressing these issues in a very expeditious and positive fashion.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Paddy Ashdown - for his achievements in Bosnia in the 1990s.

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

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Socialising, spending time with my familiy, watching Coventry City (that's not usually relaxing though) and angling if I get time.

12. What is your favourite book? I should quote a novel by Nuneaton author George Eliot, however It's the play The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare - another fine Warwickshire subject.

13. What is your favourite film? I am not really a film buff but probably The Italian Job.

14. What is your favourite music? Anything with a good tune.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Fillet steak or rack of lamb (well cooked, ie rare) with Gratin au dauphinois and a nice glass of Merlot - at home or at any good resturaunt.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Cyrpus.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Be an excellent constituency MP and be recognised for that by my constituents.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. Many years ago, I had for several years a summer job at Silverstone racing circuit - on several occassions I drove around the circuit in a Sherpa Van (not quite like Nigel Mansell at that time) and at several Grand Prix I painted the white lines on the grid.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Mary Whitehouse (the television campaigner) was born in Nuneaton.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. Following a GENEVA canvassing session, I was asked to call a lady in the constituency. I called the lady in question, and her first words were "I don't like the look of you, I certainly won't be voting for you". The lady then went off on a 10-minute tirade, telling me what was wrong with the country. After listening I sensed that I would not persuade the lady, so very politely I thanked her for taking my her call and asked her if she wanted to talk about any other issues; when she declined the offer, we ended the conversation. On the Saturday before the election I was out campaigning in Nuneaton town centre and a lady approached me. Her first words were "I was that lady who told you on the phone that I did not like the look of you and would not vote for you". "Well." she said, "I have been thinking and you're not as bad as I thought and I'll be voting for you next week". I must have done something right!!!

> Previously: John Glen MP

Wednesday, September 01, 2010 in Class of 2010, Marcus Jones MP | Permalink | Comments (10)

31 Aug 2010 07:00:00

John Glen 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...

John Glen was elected MP for Salisbury with a majority of 5,966.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Driving home from school in 1982 discussing the Falklands War with my Dad – soon after my 8th birthday.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe in free enterprise, family and a government that enables individuals to fulfil their potential as active citizens.”

3. Who is your political hero and why? William Wilberforce – for the determination he showed in sticking to a cause through many years when the prevailing currents of political culture were not with him.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? It has been an ambition since a visit to the Commons to meet (Sir) Richard Needham, my local MP, aged 11.

5. What is your reading material of choice? I enjoy biographies and this summer I have read Douglas Hurd’s book on Peel and Ziegler’s book on Heath. I read most of the main political blogs each day and all papers – especially the Daily Mail headlines in order to anticipate some of my email correspondence for the week ahead!

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? I like Jon Sopel who always seems quite reasonable in his approach to interviews.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? I would love to run Health or Education as they offer the most challenges and the biggest opportunity to improve the quality of life in the country.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? It has become a popular choice, but Frank Field MP has always been someone I have had a lot of respect for.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? I don’t know yet!

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Spending time with my wife and two step-children. I enjoy eating out and reading but watching Australian Masterchef and The X Factor with my wife and stepson has become a ritual when I am at home!

12. What is your favourite book? Alan Clark’s Diaries for the amusing honesty he displays in describing the ups and downs of political life.

13. What is your favourite film? Goodbye Mr Chips (1939 version).

14. What is your favourite music? I listen to whatever CD track is on at the time.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Steak and Chips at La Poule au Pot, Pimlico.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? The Maldives (not that I will be going anytime soon!)

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Keep the HPA jobs at Porton Down and become known as a responsive and dedicated constituency MP as well as a respected member of the Defence Select Committee.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I am a JP (Magistrate).

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. I am privileged to have Tim Montgomerie as one of my constituents who alongside Michael Dobbs (House of Cards) and Sting (Fields of Gold) make a famous trio of people who live in the Salisbury constituency.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. Arriving in a packed Market Square in Salisbury on the Saturday before the election shouting out “Vote for John Glen on May 7th” from the loudspeaker.... I was glad the people of Salisbury voted on May 6th!

> Previously: Elizabeth Truss MP

Tuesday, August 31, 2010 in Class of 2010, John Glen MP | Permalink | Comments (4)

30 Aug 2010 07:00:00

Elizabeth Truss 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...

Elizabeth Truss was elected MP for South West Norfolk with a majority of 13,140.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Being taken on a CND march by my mother at the age of 8.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe in liberty and the free market."

3. Who is your political hero and why? Ronald Reagan - he was an optimist about what could be achieved.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? It gradually dawned on me...

5. What is your reading material of choice? ConservativeHome, food blogs and cookbooks, The Times.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Laura Kuenssberg.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Treasury or Cabinet Office - I want to get to grips with the government machine.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? David Laws, for being an early adopter of education and economic reform.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? No comment.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Cooking and reading crime ficton, especially Sherlock Holmes

12. What is your favourite book? The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas.

13. What is your favourite film? Mulholland Drive. I also have a soft spot for ET.

14. What is your favourite music? Queen, The Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, Whitney Houston.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Breakfast of waffles, bacon and maple syrup and espresso at a roadside diner.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? South California.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Dual the final stretch of the A11 and help achieve reform of A -Levels and GCSEs.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I spent the second year of my life in 1970s Poland as my parents tried out life under the communists. I gather one of my first words was the Polish for clock.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. 'Allo 'Allo, You Rang M'Lord and Dad's Army were all filmed in South West Norfolk. Indeed I met Katie Rabett who played Cissy Meldrum in You Rang M'Lord at a fete recently.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. During the campaign I went to a local pub with some friends who had brought their dog. The dog was wearing a blue rosette. The pub had a chicken coop and as we were eating our lunch the dog had taken too much interest in one of the chickens. There was screeching from the coop. Luckily we managed to rescue the chicken minus a few feathers and retrieve the rosette from the chicken house.

> Previously: Steve Baker MP

Monday, August 30, 2010 in Class of 2010, Elizabeth Truss MP | Permalink | Comments (12)

29 Aug 2010 07:00:00

Steve Baker 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...

Steve Baker was elected MP for Wycombe with a majority of 9,560.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Meeting David Penhaligon, Liberal MP for Truro, when I was a child. He greeted my father, a builder, with charm and familiarity, earning the lifelong respect for which he was well known.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… the Conservative Party has always sought to conserve freedom, responsibility and enterprise; these are the keys to social progress for everyone."

3. Who is your political hero and why? Richard Cobden. Cobden gave up his business prospects to further the philosophy of freedom in the general interest. He was principled, pragmatic and yet thoughtful.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? 31st October 2007.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Non-fiction books. FT, Telegraph, Times, Economist, Spectator, MoneyWeek, Private Eye, ConHome, Cranmer (when he is up and about), Douglas Carswell, mises.org and, of course, the Bucks Free Press.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Martin Durkin of WAGtv, who interviewed me for a forthcoming documentary on the financial crisis.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? The Treasury, because it is time for thorough reform of banking.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Frank Field MP.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Anyone given to panic.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Skydiving with friends who detest politics.

12. What is your favourite book? The Open Society and its Enemies by Karl Popper.

13. What is your favourite film? Heat, probably.

14. What is your favourite music? Rock, dance.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Asian food, wherever my wife was.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Vassiliki Bay, Greece, which has reliable, strong winds and a range of fast catamarans.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Health reform in Wycombe. The complete cancellation of HS2.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I was selected two years to the day after deciding to try for Parliament, at my first appearance for selection, in a traditionally Conservative seat.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Disraeli campaigned in High Wycombe with a speech in which he said, "I am a Conservative to preserve all that is good in our constitution, a Radical to remove all that is bad", which seems appropriate today.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. When the three main candidates met for the first time, we found we were capable of a serious philosophical discussion. That was the last time we had one.

> Previously: Justin Tomlinson MP

Sunday, August 29, 2010 in Class of 2010, Steve Baker MP | Permalink | Comments (7)

28 Aug 2010 06:44:52

Justin Tomlinson 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...

Justin Tomlinson was elected MP for Swindon North with a majority of 7,060.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Kenny Everett, Big Hands - 'Let's Bomb Russia' in 1983! Mind you, at that age I was more impressed by the 'Big Hands' than the underlying political message.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… We are on the side of those who are prepared to work hard and make a positive contribution to society."

3. Who is your political hero and why? Margaret Thatcher, she had the courage, drive and determination to face down the loony left hell bent on destroying our country.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? I stood as the Conservative candidate in the school elections in 1992 which I really enjoyed. However, like Neil Kinnock's Sheffield rally I failed spectacularly by only securing 2 votes (half of which were mine!). I realised I would need to improve if I was ever to become an MP!

5. What is your reading material of choice? With newspapers I read a mix of The Sun, The Express, Daily Mail and The Times Online, I keep an eye on events through BBC News and ConservativeHome. which gives a good mix of the issues that matter, plus excellent sports coverage! Then at the end of the day (or on holiday) to unwind, I enjoy reading fiction, horror and sci-fi with a sprinkling of history or sport.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Andrew Neil, lethal with his timing and humour.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? A tough choice between Department of Sport (mostly for fun!) or Department of Business, Innovation & Skills as having spent 10 years running my own small business I understand the importance of championing entrepreneurs who are willing to take the risks to become the next generation of wealth creators.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Liz Kendall MP, courteous and one to watch.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? David Lammy MP literally seems to shake with hatred of all things Conservative! I wouldn’t want to ruin his day!

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican, mostly.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? TV: Outnumbered, Inbetweeners, Gillette Soccer Saturday, The Apprentice, Peep Show, The Office and Top Gear. I also enjoy socialising with friends and spending far too much time playing Football Manager, with as much 'success' as Fabio Capello!

12. What is your favourite book? House of Cards by Michael Dobbs - it helped spark an interest in the political world.

13. What is your favourite film? The Hangover.

14. What is your favourite music? I am probably alone amongst MPs on this front, but I love Dance music - David Guetta, The Prodigy, Cut Up Boys etc. In my defence, I was a nightclub manager for a few years after finishing University.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Sunday Roast, anywhere and everywhere!

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? I love the Far East, well worth the long haul. Though had I lost the election, I had planned to head to South Africa to watch England in the World Cup, lucky escape there!

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? As a local resident of North Swindon myself, I am driven by making sure I have made a positive tangible difference to our local area. Nationally I am working hard to push for greater personal financial training in schools, improved quality of life within new developments - in particular greater open space for 'jumpers for goal posts' - and promoting and supporting small shops within our communities and high streets.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I am a football stats geek!

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. We are currently twinned with Disneyland, Florida!

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. We managed to secure a high profile spot in front of the Asda Superstore. We planned balloons, leaflets, stickers and a team of enthusiastic helpers to promote our message, but forgot to decide who would actually organise this. Anyway, I turned up armed only with a broken decorator's table (pictured, right) which collapsed if you had anything more than a few leaflets on it - all we managed was to secure many looks of confusion/pity rather swathes of new supporters!

> Previously: Nicky Morgan MP

Saturday, August 28, 2010 in Class of 2010, Justin Tomlinson | Permalink | Comments (5)

27 Aug 2010 05:52:10

NIcky Morgan 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...

Nicky Morgan was elected MP for Loughborough with a majority of 3,744.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Looking for candles at home in the late 1970s because of the power cuts – trade unions at their worst.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe in the power of individuals."

3. Who is your political hero and why? A leader such as Gorbachev who has the courage to challenge the political system which promoted him/them to the top.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? At some point between 1992 and 1997 when I saw what the Conservative Party was doing to itself.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Ideally a really good book – either a biography or novel. But it is often a magazine such as The Week just before I fall asleep – or Thomas the Tank Engine before my toddler falls asleep.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Tom Bradby.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Department for Culture, Media and Sport – because it has the capacity to enrich our lives.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? President Jed Bartlett!

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? The current Labour leadership contenders.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? A Democrat.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Spending time with my husband and son, cooking, running.

12. What is your favourite book? North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell.

13. What is your favourite film? Crimson Tide.

14. What is your favourite music? Jazz.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? A very long lunch surrounded by family and friends somewhere very hot and sunny.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Majorca.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Putting Loughborough firmly on the map in Westminster.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I have sung, as part of a choir, on the stages at the Festival Hall, Royal Albert Hall, Barbican and St John’s, Smith Square.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Team GB will be based at Loughborough University before the 2012 Olympics.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. CCHQ decided to use their new campaign buses for David Cameron’s visit to Loughborough at the start of the second week of the campaign. As usual there were worries about whether there would be enough people in the market place to hear David Cameron speak. I left my campaign team and the CCHQ staff to it and went off to Loughborough station to meet David Cameron’s train. Sitting on the campaign bus we approached a pretty full market place in the bus and drove on there – and kept on driving to the point where I thought we were going to squash a spectator which would have produced very unfortunate headlines for all concerned. Fortunately the CCHQ staffer knew the dimensions of the bus better than me and we had about an inch to spare, but I was still recovering from what might have happened as the leader’s speech began.

> Previously: Margot James MP

Friday, August 27, 2010 in Class of 2010, Nicky Morgan MP | Permalink | Comments (22)

26 Aug 2010 06:30:49

Margot James 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...

Margot James was elected MP for Stourbridge with a majority of 5,164.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The assassination of JFK and the election of Harold Wilson as PM in 1964.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe in enterprise, reward for risk and hard work and the freedom of the individual."

3. Who is your political hero and why? Margaret Thatcher, because I grew up in the Seventies and my father’s business, which was entirely self made (he left school at 14), was nearly destroyed by the Trade Unions and no one thought it was possible to change the course of decline Britain was firmly on.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? When I was 16 I asked Michael Heseltine at a by-election public meeting whether a Conservative Government would denationalise the nationalised industries. He said great idea, but no one would want to buy them..... I thought there had to be a way and that I’d like to become an MP and have a go.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Biographies and history, political diaries, The Times and The Week.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Nick Robinson.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Business, Innovation & Skills - I’d like to put my experience of business and further education to use, I think I’d be a good ambassador for British Business and manufacturing and I’d like to do everything possible to defend excellence in higher education.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Barbara Castle: she saw the need to stand up to the Unions before anyone else did and she was a fighter – until late in to her 80s she was shaming the Labour Government’s record on pensions.

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

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? What a choice - a fiscally conservative Democrat or a socially liberal Republican, either way I’d be in for an uncomfortable ride!

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? I walk my dog – or cook a nice meal, nose around my wine collection and maybe order a few more bottles.

12. What is your favourite book? Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë.

13. What is your favourite film? The Go Between.

14. What is your favourite music? I like so many types of music, I love Motown, soul, opera and the sort of Rock genre that includes Pink Floyd, U2, Dire Straits etc but most of all I love choral music.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? A Sunday roast with my family in our home in the Cotswolds.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? An impossible choice but France has everything, great skiing, wonderful beaches, beautiful cities and the rural way of life that I adore - I like everything about France except doing business there!

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? I would like to make a positive mark on the Health bill, the provision of mental health services (not forgetting mental health in the criminal justice system), and accommodation for older people - in particular I’d like to contribute to the solution we find for funding residential care. I’d also like to support IDS’s efforts to make work pay. Most of all I’d like to make the people who voted for me in Stourbridge feel proud of me as their MP..

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. There are times when I wish I wasn’t so driven because I would love to have more of the life I only have a tiny slice of really - time with my nephews and nieces, time making jam and marmalade, picking vegetables and cooking for Jay and the family..

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. It is the Balti capital of the Midlands as well as being the centre of historic glassmaking – the factories of Stuart Crystal, Webb Corbett and others becoming world renowned.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. When I managed to offend all but one of my wonderful young male volunteers: I served lots of tea and cake during our afternoon breaks and gave a fork to everyone and the last guy to be served one day was Matt, a tree surgeon who had come in from work and had dirt all over his good looking face. I said ‘’Here's your cake Matt, you don’t need a fork, do you, you’re a real man’’ and the others were obviously quite upset!

> Previously: Sajid Javid MP

Thursday, August 26, 2010 in Class of 2010, Margot James MP | Permalink | Comments (17)

25 Aug 2010 06:37:55

Sajid Javid 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...

Sajid Javid was elected MP for Bromsgrove with a majority of 11,308.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Margaret Thatcher's 1979 General Election victory.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I'm a patriot that believes in liberty, free markets and helping the poor help themselves."

3. Who is your political hero and why? Keith Joseph, without whom we would not have had Thatcherism.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? Soon after I went to my first Party Conference, in 1989.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Economist, FT, WSJ, Times, ConHome, RealClearPolitics, Bloomberg, and my local papers.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? My all time favourite, Brian Walden.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? DWP, because I think we are failing the poor by tying them down.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Frank Field, whom I first met 20 years ago.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Don't tempt me.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? I lived in Manhattan for four years and was a member of the GOP.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Taking my time over a smooth Havana cigar.

12. What is your favourite book? Freedom at Midnight by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre.

13. What is your favourite film? It's a Wonderful Life.

14. What is your favourite music? U2.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Pizza, at Monte Carlo Cafe in Rome.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Italy.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Go out of my way to help my constituents and make an intelligent contribution to the huge issues facing our country.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. Having first travelled abroad at the age of 19, I have since been fortunate enough to visit over 80 countries.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. After being introduced by the French Huguenots in the 17th century, Bromsgrove became the world centre of nail making.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. Being asked by a gentlemen of Indian-origin with a heavy accent and barely comprehensible English: "Why do we let people who can't speak English settle in our country?"

> Previously: Karl McCartney MP

Wednesday, August 25, 2010 in Class of 2010, Sajid Javid MP | Permalink | Comments (14)

24 Aug 2010 07:00:00

Karl McCartney 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...

Karl McCartney was elected MP for Lincoln with a majority of 1,058.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Meeting David (now Lord) Hunt when I was 10 and he was our MP on the Wirral and my parents were proud my name and picture were in the local paper!

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe everyone should be able to make something of themselves - there is no limit on aspiration so 'rely on yourself' - and I dislike state control."

3. Who is your political hero and why? (Now Cllr) Geoff Harper - for teaching me as an agent so much about fighting elections, and the joy of politics.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? At university in my first year, so my contemporaries tell me. I remember telling my Uncle and Auntie who laughed at my lofty ambitions (in front of my then girlfriend, I was most put out) just before Christmas '88.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Various books that interest me, Battle of Britain history books most recently, practical classics magazines, Private Eye, some blogs and websites.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? All those whose pomposity is often pricked... I like the ones who are fairly inquisitive of anyone and willing to enter intelligent debate and know their brief. I dislike the establishment pseudo-intelligentsia and those who can't grasp reality.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Any would be a challenge and a real pinnacle to reach/achieve. Department of Culture, Media & Sport, as a civilised society is defined by the standard and emphasis placed on these - but I think the current incumbent is doing a grand job! I am very happy at this point just being an MP though, thanks - I'm busy enough!

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Tony Benn - he speaks his mind as he sees it and believes exactly what he says. I don't agree with him much politically, but respect his honesty and loyalty to his beliefs. He life and words inspire many I am sure.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? Anyone who is easily offended - one of the PC brigade who has no sense of humour possibly - or someone with BO or halitosis - or who likes singing showtunes... they know who they are!

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Whichever Bob Robbins is standing for (or Robin Williams in his comedy Presidential role - Man of the Year).

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Playing trains or scalextric with our two boys, driving anywhere in our 1959 fulltilt LR - 'MUFTI'. Daydreaming. Just spending time with family or friends... chillin' or throwin' some shapes to particular rave faves.

12. What is your favourite book? The Big Six as a child but still enjoyable, more recently thought provokingly - The Art of War.

13. What is your favourite film? Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Italian Job (original) or more recently The Hangover - inspired asides.

14. What is your favourite music? Most dance music, Spear of Destiny, AC/DC, Green Day (most recent live concert) Black Eyed Peas, or taken recently by 'mashups' - the more obtuse and inspired the better.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Full English breakfast with HP or Sunday Roast if in UK. Mozzarella, tomatoes and basil if in Italy. Although they both vie with Waddington Branch's 'Puddings Only' event which is a real guilty pleasure.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Any snow boarding resort.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? To have helped deliver progress and real change that improves the quality of life for my constituents and the City of Lincoln.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I like cooking and have baked some diverse birthday cakes by request for our sons.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. It has a railway crossing on the High Street that splits the City in two for over 20 minutes in every hour at present and that could rise, if Network Rail have their way, to over 40 minutes in every hour by 2013.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. Lincolnshire Shadow Minister (at the time) helping himself to copious chips during a pub lunch from a customer who was evidently not a Conservative voter and did not want to engage. JH kindly spent a large chunk of a day campaigning with us near the start of the Campaign and was a star!. Having to deal with trickiest questions at campaign debates from people who were supposed to be Conservatives was not a favourite pastime or amusing!

> Previously: Jack Lopresti MP

Tuesday, August 24, 2010 in Class of 2010, Karl McCartney MP | Permalink | Comments (15)

23 Aug 2010 07:00:00

Jack Lopresti 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...

Jack Lopresti was elected MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke with a majority of 6,914.

1. What is your earliest political memory? The power cuts at school in the early 1970s during the Heath era strikes.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I am a patriot and I believe in freedom, small but strong government and getting the state off the backs of people."

3. Who is your political hero and why? Winston S Churchill, for courage, determination, leadership and his great humanity.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? November 1990.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Military and political history, The Spectator, The Daily Telegraph and The Sun.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Andrew Neil.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Ministry of Defence. I am a soldier who seen active service as a private in the ranks, so I would have some modest experience to bring to the role. In many ways I think it’s the most important Government department, the first responsibility of any government is the defence of the realm and the security of our people.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Jack Straw.

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? I never use the lifts, I try and keep fit as being an MP can be an unhealthy lifestyle.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Reading, listening to music, running and hill/mountain walking. Also enjoying good food and wine with friends!

12. What is your favourite book? The Mists of Avalon, which is about Dark age Britain and King Arthur.

13. What is your favourite film? Patton.

14. What is your favourite music? I don’t really have a favourite but I do love all types of music.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? A seafood and pasta dish, at my favourite restaurant in the whole world; La Mamela, Catalan Bay, Gibraltar.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? USA.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? To become an effective backbench MP and to secure a reputation in the Filton and Bradley Stoke constituency as an accessible and very hard working local MP.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I left school at 15 to work in my family’s small catering and ice cream business in Bristol.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Filton is where the British Concorde was built. It flew from Filton on its maiden flight. It’s also where the last Concorde to fly landed on its last flight on 24th October 2003 and it sadly resides now in Filton as a museum piece.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. What I really remember from the campaign trail is the sense of camaraderie, friendship, fun and above all, a great team achievement. It was a thoroughly enjoyable time and one which I will savour for so many reasons for the rest of my life.

> Previously: Nick de Bois MP

Monday, August 23, 2010 in Class of 2010, Jack Lopresti MP | Permalink | Comments (9)

22 Aug 2010 07:00:00

Nick de Bois 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...

Nick de Bois was elected MP for Enfield North with a majority of 1,692.

1. What is your earliest political memory? Aged 15 - The two general elections of 1974 and the 3 day week.

2. Complete the sentence: “I’m a Conservative because… I believe the individual should be bigger than the State, and that personal choice is matched by individual responsibility."

3. Who is your political hero and why? Margaret Thatcher:sShe liberated the economy and empowered less privileged people to go for it - I was one of them.

4. When did you decide you wanted to become an MP? 1997 - I thought it was time to stop being an armchair critic and 'put up or shut up'.

5. What is your reading material of choice? Biogs, the Telegraph and the Times, ConHome and trashy political thrillers.

6. Who is your favourite political interviewer/presenter on TV or radio? Andrew Marr.

7. If you could run any government department, which would it be and why? Business - I want to liberate the small and medium sized companies from massive over-government, and empower the individual once again to set up and run their own companies.

8. Which non-Conservative politician do you most admire? Tony Benn

9. Who would you least want to get stuck with in a House of Commons lift? The Chief Whip, if I had ever failed to attend a vote.

10. If you were in the US, would you be a Republican or a Democrat? Reagan Republican.

11. What do you enjoy doing to unwind and relax? Gym, walking, watching black and white films like Casablanca.

12. What is your favourite book? Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy by John Le Carré.

13. What is your favourite film? Casablanca closely followed by It's a Wonderful Life.

14. What is your favourite music? I am nostalgic for 60's and 70's rock and pop.

15. What would be your ideal meal and where would you eat it? Dinner with my wife at the same place where we were married last year.

16. What is your favourite holiday destination? Annapolis, Maryland.

17. What do you most want to achieve during your first term in Parliament? Demonstrate to my constituents that a local politician can make a difference, is accessible, and represents the constituency first and foremost.

18. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about yourself. I wrote a children's storybook years ago but no one wanted to publish it and I am currently teaching myself the Sax.

19. Tell us one interesting, unusual or surprising fact about your constituency. Barclay's Bank in Enfield Market Place was home to the world's first ATM.

20. Share with us your most amusing story or favourite anecdote from the campaign trail. Making progress down a street canvassing, I stopped at a house where there was a Conservative poster in one of the bedroom windows. The owner of the house, a man in his late forties, came to the door, took one look at my rosette and said: “You're wasting your time here, not the right colour - hop it!” Confused, I mentioned the poster in the window, suggesting someone else in the house might take a different view. He stepped out of the house, looked up at the window and said “why, that little so and so”, shut the door and I heard him rushing up the stairs. A second later, a young teenager was seen taking the poster down - clearly he had only put it up to wind up his Dad!

> Previously: Alun Cairns MP

Sunday, August 22, 2010 in Class of 2010, Nick de Bois MP | Permalink | Comments (0)

Class of 2010

Harriett Baldwin MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

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RIchard Harrington MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Marcus Jones MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

John Glen MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Elizabeth Truss MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Steve Baker MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Justin Tomlinson MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

NIcky Morgan MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Margot James MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Sajid Javid MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Karl McCartney MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Jack Lopresti MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

Nick de Bois MP answers ConHome's Twenty Questions for the Class of 2010

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