News and Chronicle Third Degree

1. When did you realise that you wanted to become a lawyer?

When I was still at school. I’d my law degree at 19.

2. What’s the biggest misconception about the job that you do?

That it mainly involves appearing in court. Most of the work is done in trying to avoid that being neccessary.

3. What is the passion that drives you on?

Every day brings a new client and a new challenge.

4. Where’s your favourite place in the whole world?

Perugia in central Italy. I aim to go there at least once a year.

5. Who has been your biggest inspiration?

Legally, my old boss, Professor J. Ross Harper. Brilliant. Personally, President Mandela.

6 Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give to your teenage self?

Don’t attack the party leadership if you want to get on in politics!

7. What do you think has been the most far-reaching historical development of the last 100 years?

The Roosevelt Administration in America. Literally saved the world for democracy.

8. Which three people living or dead would you most like to have a wee dram with?

Giuseppi Garibaldi; Clement Attlee and Audrey Hepburn

9. What’s your pet hate?

Anybody with a bad word for Audrey Hepburn

10. What song sums up your life?

I Will Survive!