It is true that I entered parliament at the age of 23, and have now been representing the people of my constituency for over twenty years.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I've been in Parliament since 1983, and I've been involved in many issues over the time.
It has been the greatest privilege of my adult and public life to have served, for 32 years, as the Member of Parliament for our local Highlands and Islands communities.
I knew quite a lot about politics before I went to Parliament.
I have voted in every election that I have been qualified to vote in since I turned 18.
When you first come into Parliament, it's a daunting place because you feel you've so much to learn. Once you've been re-elected, you feel much more confident. It just gives you a bit of a boost.
At times I wonder whether or not your role as a member of Parliament... may in fact inhibit a relationship developing.
My function in life is not to be a politician in Parliament: it is to get something done.
I have moved on from being a British parliamentarian, I have moved on from being a New Labour politician, I have moved on from being the supporter in the active day-to-day sense of Tony Blair.
One consistent thing in an otherwise inconsistent career is that I've always been passionate about parliament.
I've committed myself to serve my constituents in South Shields and I have committed myself to British politics.
No opposing quotes found.