112 quotes
I use the word 'celebrate' quite deliberately.
Cardinal Winning Lecture (2008)
Change is what political leadership is about.
Such are the joys of national leadership!
Principles and Priorities : Programme for Government (2007)
The public interest is not served by parties incapable of defining their driving principles and standing their ground. Politics is either about the competition of ideas or it is about nothing.
Strategic objectives of new Government (2007)
I think has been invaluable to me in terms of a moral compass – of some idea of what’s acceptable and what is not acceptable.
In truth, most people already believe there is too much legislation and yearn for a more considered and more restricted approach. I embrace that sense of legislative restraint.
Principles and Priorities : Programme for Government (2007)
While we might always have enjoyed self-expression, we have perhaps at times lacked a little bit of self-belief.
Broadcasting Speech (2007)
I believe it is through independence that we can do most to help our nation to flourish, to improve our quality of life.
Citizens Advice Bureaux (2007)
It would be much easier if we had the full powers of an independent country. Therefore I was anticipating being in that position by 2017.
A skilled people, an economy with a competitive edge. These are the ways to transform economic performance.
Principles and Priorities : Programme for Government (2007)
I want to see Scotland at the heart of Europe's energy policy and future.
Vision for Scotland in the European Union (2007)
The people of Scotland want a Government based on principle but able to move with mainstream opinion to build consensus in the public interest.
Principles and Priorities : Programme for Government (2007)
Our national story has its full share of grief and pain as well as triumph and expectation. But through it all, hope remains and dreams do not die.
It is time to celebrate diversity and distinctiveness. And to openly welcome the contribution that faith based education can make to Scottish education.
Cardinal Winning Lecture (2008)
Let us achieve great things for those who granted us the privilege to serve.
Scotland and Northern Ireland (2007)
While individuals must take responsibility for their spending, they are entitled to protections from outrageous credit charges.
Citizens Advice Bureaux (2007)
I want to see Gaelic thrive across the whole of Scotland.
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Lecture (2007)
You are the blood of our blood and the bone of our bone.
Scotland and Northern Ireland (2007)
We celebrate the values which define modern Scotland: the values of humanity, compassion, enterprise, ambition, and a determined internationalism.
St Andrew's Day (2007)
A Parliament's job is not just to legislate but to debate, to enquire and to understand.
Strategic objectives of new Government (2007)