DD: Experience is incredibly important; my challenger is very talented; I have a lot of experience; I've been in business; I've been in government; I've taken on David Blunkett; I am resilient enough to face the onslaught that Labour will unleash on whoever wins this leadership contest (the minute the winner is declared).
DC: I hope that whoever wins this contest this kind of debate should be only the first of its kind; The next one should be with the Leader of Labour ahead of the next election [producing first big clap of evening]; I may not have much experience but I have the right vision for the country; I can take tough decisions - as I did in war on Iraq.
DC (asked about business experience): I worked in Carlton - and marketed it across the world. I also worked behind-the-scenes in government. More important than experience is vision for Britain.
DD (would you ask Ken Clarke to be in your shadow cabinet?): Yes. And William Hague too (produced DD's first big clap). I want to form Tory shadow cabinet of all talents. Paid big tribute to IDS too for his work on social justice.
DC: Will serve DD if unsuccessful; Have not offered anyone any jobs.
Davis got a break getting the Ken Clarke question first - Cameron would undoubtedly have said the same thing...
Posted by: Cllr Iain Lindley | 03 November 2005 at 22:51
Cameron's point was that he's not thinking about jobs for anyone (other than himself of course!) at this stage so unlikely he would have said the same thing, I'd have thought.
Posted by: | 03 November 2005 at 22:55
Yes, I suppose. I'm not sure he would have named name, but the broad sentiment "a ministry of all talents" was certainly shared, and Davis speaking first allowed him to make the point more forcefully.
Posted by: Cllr Iain Lindley | 03 November 2005 at 22:58
DC has always been very clear on this point. You need youth and INSIGHT. Only DC has the undrestanding and empathy to reach out and hold a conversation with modern Britain.
Posted by: George | 04 November 2005 at 00:47
You need a balance, the authority of experience with the vigour and drive of youth.
Neither has both but neither is perfect.
Posted by: wasp | 04 November 2005 at 10:39