“ Politics means facing up to hard choices and facing down prejudice, short-termism, the easy, tempting court of knee-jerk public reaction. Charles Kennedy
“ It is my determination that we, as a party, continue to make that fundamental restatement of liberal values in the politics of our country. Charles Kennedy
“ If British troops are committed to action, then the nation will, of course, support them. Their courage and skill is not in doubt. Charles Kennedy
“ Democracy demands trust. It demands that sense of mutual understanding. And - it's a two way street. You've got to give - as much as you take. Charles Kennedy
“ I should do something about the cigarettes I quite accept that it's bad for your health, but you know a moderate tipple is positively beneficial and, at certain times, absolutely essential. Charles Kennedy
“ Music and politics are in essence about communication. Without over-stretching the analogy I do feel a sense of rhythm is important in getting your message across. Charles Kennedy
“ The way to defeat international terrorism is through international cooperation based on international law, clear intelligence, and a measured and appropriate military response. Charles Kennedy
“ Good political leadership for me involves getting the big decisions right - however difficult, however controversial, however potentially divisive - and then being able to take people with you. Charles Kennedy
“ Gratification and happiness are becoming important measures of our quality of life. Charles Kennedy
“ The one thing we can all be sure about in politics is you are as well to expect the unexpected. Charles Kennedy
“ We believe that government in Britain is there to protect people from terrorism and from the worst criminality, but never at the expense of our civil liberties and the basic tenets of our legal system… Charles Kennedy
“ Three simple words - freedom, justice and honesty. These sum up what the Liberal Democrats stand for. Charles Kennedy
“ The most special relationships, in my experience, are based on a combination of trust and mutual respect. Charles Kennedy
“ Immigrants provide skills that we simply cannot afford to do without. They have contributed hugely to Britain's success. Charles Kennedy
“ Politics is much too serious to be taken too seriously equally, there are many aspects of it so laughable as to be lamentable. Charles Kennedy
“ The quicker we get rid of the lobby system the better for all of us. I don't think in this day and age it is tenable to have these nods and winks, and on-the-record and off-the-record briefings. Charles Kennedy
“ Yes, you need substance in politics - but I think your style also says something about how you arrive at some of your conclusions. Charles Kennedy
