If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be and why?

Chris Bonington. He is a fantastic mountaineer. It would be good to hear about his adventures.

What is your biggest fear?

Any harm to my children, but I’ve always been a bit wary of large flocks of birds – too much Alfred Hitchcock film watching!

Do you have any superstitions?

No.

If you could have only one song on your iPod, what would it be and why?

Dancing in the Street by Martha Reeves and the Vandellas. I have got great memories as a teenager of dancing to Motown songs at the New Club in Tredegar.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought, not including your property?

My big, old, Volvo car – 15 years old, 120,000 miles on the clock, but still going strong.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Pay down your debts as soon as possible. I remember the lessons of compound interest very well from Tredegar Comprehensive School.

What’s your indulgence?

Good coffee

What item could you not live without?

My smartphone. It’s got the lot – diary, contacts, web access. When you’re a busy politician on the hoof, you need excellent communications kit.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I focus too much on politics and the news. I should give more time to family and friends.

Where are you next going on holiday?

Edinburgh – to the arts festival.