A biography for David Blunketthasn’t been written yet.
“Children whose parents return to study do much better at school. Offenders who persist with studies are much less likely to reoffend. The national mental health strategy recognises the important role adult learning can play for people recovering from mental illness.”
“By confirming the importance of politics and politicians in Britain, we can build from the bottom up and begin to reverse the worrying anti-politics trend, which will empower the elite technocrats and leave defenceless the man or woman in the street with a mere vote to cast.”
“We've got to get back to old-fashioned politics that's in touch with the people we seek to represent and to avoid self-inflicted wounds.”
“I was affected by the harshness of government, the reality of 16-hour days, and the pressures of modern communications.”
“If surveillance infiltrates our homes and personal relationships, that is a gross breach of our human and civil rights.”
“In primary schools, I set two main objectives - to cut infant class sizes and improve literacy and numeracy.”
“I've been fortunate when in government to have a car at my disposal, which takes away the nightmare of getting a taxi.”
“Throughout my political life, I've not been a stranger to controversy.”
“It is feasible for someone who comes from a privileged background to understand the privilege they have had and to use the formal political arena in a way that would disperse power and engage with people in their own lives.”
“Nothing is more important for young people than enhancing their life chances, liberating their potential and encouraging their contribution to a globally competitive and modern economy.”
“Politics is only worthwhile if you are doing what you believe, regardless of the slings and arrows.”
“It is certainly true that as we grow older, our need for healthcare also grows. It is also true that those who have lived their lives in the most difficult circumstances and experienced the most exhausting and challenging work places need healthcare the most.”
“Parents don't believe that lifting life-chances in one school means reducing them in another.”
“Being home secretary involves having to face some of the worst of human behaviour and challenges of modern society.”
“Reciprocity helps us balance the need for self-determination and creative individuality with mutual hope and, therefore, what might be described as 'solidarity.'”
“It would be dangerous territory if I wasn't practising what I preach which is to always accept responsibility, always accept the consequences of your actions.”
“As education and employment secretary in 1997, I inherited hundreds of schools where the roofs leaked, the windows rattled, and they relied entirely on outside toilets.”
“We need to reaffirm that politics is not merely compatible with economic progress and development in the 21st century, but essential to it.”
“It's not just parliament that requires radical modernisation. It's our democratic processes.”
“When it comes to those who are accused and their right to defend themselves, it is perfectly reasonable to expect relevant evidence to be made public, and I am in favour of open justice.”