David Blunkett Quotes
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The democratic state can sometimes abuse its power as much as those who seek to destroy it abuse fundamental rights and democratic practices.
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I grew up in one of the most deprived parts of Britain. I know the problems which inner-city children face.
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I did not in late November start the plethora of linking my private life with public events again.
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How to strike the right balance between our privacy and our expectation that the state will protect us and facilitate our freedom is one of the most difficult challenges facing us all.
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I'm a great aficionado of history. I was deeply affected by seeing the disintegration of any chance of democracy coping with fascism in the Weimar republic, where woolly-minded, well-meaning liberalism actually allowed the forces of darkness to use democracy, to exploit democracy, to overturn democracy.
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I have always been honest about my recollection of events.
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We need dynamic and thriving businesses and a skilled and adaptable labour force to produce competitiveness and prosperity.
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Balancing the common good with the freedom and liberty to exercise that individuality has been and remains a challenge for those committed to democracy while understanding that the polis ensures our participation and therefore our citizenship.
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Faith in technocrats over politicians is not a trend from which Britain is exempt.
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I've been fortunate when in government to have a car at my disposal, which takes away the nightmare of getting a taxi.
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Changes to parliamentary procedure won't transform the lives of the people whom I represent. Decentralising, devolving decision-making and renewing civil society will.
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In government, you are pressed by the security agencies. They come to you with very good information, and they say, 'You need to do something.' So you do need the breath of scepticism, not cynicism, breathing on them.