Thanks to the Daily Mirror for this selection of quotes from Charles.

On politics

The vast majority of people think there’s a hell of a lot more to life than just politics. And you’ve got to bear that in mind- because you’re actually trying to represent them.

On the Iraq war

There stands no contradiction between giving voice to legitimate anxiety and at the same time, as and when exchange of fire commences, looking to the rest of the country, as well as all of us in the house, to give full moral support to our forces. I will not support the government because the consistent line we have taken is that we do not believe there is a case for war which has been established under these procedures in the absence of a second resolution.

And again on the Iraq war

This is supposed to be a parliamentary democracy. What we’ve seen is a small clique driving us into a war, disregarding widespread public doubts. That is not acceptable.

On Paddy Ashdown – and Margaret Thatcher

Paddy Ashdown is the only party leader who’s a trained killer. Although, to be fair, Mrs Thatcher was self taught.

On education

We should have high expectations of our children, but politicians should not tell teachers how to meet them.

On politicians

There is nothing more nauseating a sight than politicians pulling up the ladder of opportunity behind them.

On the ConDem coalition

I am keeping a monastic silence for now.

On the Loch Ness monster

I am enjoying the Loch Ness monster exhibition with my nine year old son. I told him it’s the worlds most famous floating voter.

On taking politics seriously

Politics is much too serious to be taken too seriously; equally, there many aspects of it so laughable as to me lamentable.

On integrity

The point never to lose sight of is to be guided by the correct thing, as you see it. It’s the only way to approach such profound matters and retain your integrity.