Most memorable/fondest memory of Univ? Finding a quick way to get to St. Hugh's.
Awkward moments at Univ? Finding a fellow Univ man had a quicker way to get to St.Hugh's.
The most important thing I learnt? How to act all the time.
Most important thing you wish you had learnt at Oxford? How not to act all the time.
Percent satisfaction with Oxford? 74.6%
Proudest achievement of my career? Writing two books about the EU, and selling all 1000 copies of each within 6 months. The Gravy Train, and Who rules Britannia?
Lowest point in my life? Finding that most of the copies sold later reappeared as available second hand at Amazon, priced at 1p each (excl postage). Then succumbing to popular request from loyal party members that I should not write a third book.
Adjective that best describes career? Full-of-surprises.
% of potential achieved? 83.1%
Most significant unfulfilled ambition? Completing a B.A. (Hons) degree in Archaeology. Currently half-way through the 5-year distance learning course at Leicester University.
Level of optimism about medium-term future of the world? A lowly 19.6% in the short term. Once politicians have stopped trying to save the Euro, then in the medium term all could be well (43.8%). If only more Univ men had joined me in politics then the future could have been so much weller.
Professional Life: 35 years in food manufacturing companies in the UK, USA, Portugal and the Netherlands, 20 at Director/Managing Director level. Then suddenly 10 years (1999-2009) as Member of the European Parliament for my home region of the West Midlands, ending up being elected as Leader of the Conservative Group. Now essentially retired, though recently appointed Non-Exec Vice-Chairman of the local NHS Trust specialising in mental health for old folk. I look forward to taking bookings from Old Members in September (if I can remember).
Personal Life: Happily married to Angela for 44 years. Three grown-up children, all managing to bypass Univ. 5 Grandchildren (so far) all of course earmarked for for Univ.
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