5 JUNE 2004, Page 71

Q. I heard you speaking on Radio Four recently. Some

of your vowel sounds were rather suspect. Is this an affectation, or are you actually lower-middle-class?

N.McA., London W6 A. I rarely get personal inquiries but I am delighted to clarify that I hail from Irish medical and clerical dynastic stock I hope this will set your mind at rest.