One of the genuine ‘Big Beasts’ of the political scene, Clarke has held every major office of state apart from Prime Minister during his 46 years as MP for Rushcliffe in Nottinghamshire. Not a straightforward Conservative politician – Europhile and positioned to the left of the party – his views caused Thatcher to question his true blue credentials. His passionate commitment to Europe is thought to have cost him party leadership on three occasions. In conversation with Jackie Ashley, President, Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge.

With thanks to Baillie Gifford