Sir Julian Lewis: Before my right hon. Friend [Mark Francois] leaves the subject of Sir David, whom I first met in the 1970s – in a different place, and when I was briefly in a different party – I ask him to confirm my recollection: that in all those many years, I cannot think of a single occasion when David said a mean, unkind or unfair thing about anyone. There are not many people about whom one can say that, and I for one regard him as an inspiration.

[Mr Francois: I generally agree with my right hon. Friend, particularly about defence matters, and he has summed my great friend up very well. At the end of my speech, however, I will make a small revelation about David and the 1983 general election, which I hope colleagues will find amusing.]

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[Shadow Leader of the House of Commons (Chris Philp): ... It was not exactly a maiden speech from my right hon. Friend the Member for New Forest East (Sir Julian Lewis) – perhaps he gave one some time in the mists of the 19th century, I don’t know – but he recalled those who served in the second world war and drew the House’s attention to the importance of strengthening the independence of the Intelligence and Security Committee, which he had the distinction of chairing in the last Parliament. ...]

 [For Julian's speech in this debate click here.]