Quotes of the week

In Britain the press is free. The Government cannot control what the press can report.

Alastair Goodlad, Foreign Office Minister, on the Pergau dam affair

I remember being told sex before marriage was similar in principle - and I emphasise in principle - to opening one's Christmas presents before Christmas.

Lord Palmer speaking in the House of Lords debate on family values

It's as though people are coming and going as they please into these royal homes. Security should be a lot better.

Michael Fagan, who broke into the Queen's bedroom in 1982, on the burglary at St James's palace

It took me 30 years to realise that politics and Parliament are not the same thing.

Roy Hattersley, Labour MP, announcing his intention not to stand again for Parliament

There is no such thing as partial equality. People are either equal or they are not.

Edwina Currie, MP, urging support for lowering the age of consent for male homosexuals to 16