At its most basic the democratic contract is a simple one: the right to vote comes with a responsibility to society, through tax payments and citizenship.

People rightly want our political leaders - on all sides - to concentrate on minimising the damage to jobs, living standards and our savings from the banking crisis.

At times unpopular measures are needed in order to change behaviour.

Like many of my friends and colleagues, I can't get enough of Obama news; latest polling, speeches, visits, reaction of world leaders.

There's a loss of faith in the banking system that for so long has been the backbone of prosperity and growth.

Funding for sports (and the arts) are often the first things facing the chop in difficult times.

In politics, the number of women in the cabinet has fallen and, if current poll trends continue and Labour loses a number of marginal seats, the number of female MPs is likely to drop significantly.

Indeed, when all parties campaign effectively the overall effect is to push up voting rates, as you see in tight marginal seats or close general elections. That must be good for democracy.

Today the demands are for even higher standards in the quality of care, for greater flexibility and convenience in treatment times, and for more prevention through screening and health checks.

Sixteen- and 17-year-olds pay taxes and can join the army, so surely they should in turn be given their right to vote.

In Scotland, the indication is that for the Westminster elections at least, Labour voters are satisfied with their government.

Nostalgia in reverse, the longing for yet another strange land, grew especially strong in spring.

The existence of guilty sense is soimportant in education and religion.

...And if reading could banish the idea for even half an hour, it was something gained.

The time is short and the hills is dark and I's got miles to go before I sleeps. Is is no easy road.

I am always trying to eat the right kind of foods that are going to keep me healthy.

I think that acting is a very humanizing profession.

When we forgive and let go, not only does a huge weight drop off your shoulders, but the doorway to your own self-love opens.

The king is a strong piece - use it !

I would have remembered the good stuff. Nobody ever remembers the good stuff.