Frances O'Grady

There is this sense of David Cameron leading a Government that's badly out of touch with ordinary people's lives. I'd absolutely welcome the opportunity to show all political leaders what life is like for most people. ”

I suspect there are people in all walks of life who need to be dragged into the 21st century in terms of attitudes towards women. ”

I worry that some politicians still think we are living in the 1950s where the man is the main breadwinner and the woman works for pin money. Actually, most families where there are two parents depend on two incomes to get by. ”

The TUC's new slogan 'a future that works' sets a profound challenge. Austerity and rapid deficit reduction is failing in its own terms, but even at its best it is short-sighted, muddle-through politics with no vision of a new economic model. ”

Ordinary people who have lots of good ideas want more than a suggestion box, and they need a union to represent that thinking. ”

I do know what it's like to worry about bills, I do know what it's like to worry about even finding a child-minder, never mind paying them. ”

I like independent films... European films. I do go and see popular films as well because my kids force me. ”

It is not natural or inevitable that half the world goes hungry; that the freedom of markets trumps protection of the planet; or that citizens' rights come second to those of corporations. ”

RFK was a compelling figure because he was willing to challenge his audiences, and in turn connect with them in a unique way. Kennedy showed that our values define us and can inspire others to believe in the possibility of change and a better society. ”

I cherish the creation of public space and services, especially health, housing and the comprehensive education system which dared to give so many of us ideas 'above our station.' ”