What would people be surprised to know about you?
My middle name is Harvey.
What has been your most uncomfortable moment in the Speaker’s chair?
Since the death of my daughter Natalie, I have found listening to debates on suicide really difficult.
What was the last piece of music/play/novel/film that brought you to tears?
The book—and film—Ring of Bright Water, which I read at school in English Literature. I couldn’t hold back the tears when the otter was killed near the end.
What is the biggest problem of all?
Right now, it is Covid.
What is your favourite quotation?
I like the proverb “actions speak louder than words.” I recently discovered, fittingly enough, that the same sentiment was used by English parliamentarian John Pym, and indeed recorded in Hansard in 1628: “A word spoken in season is like an Apple of Gold set in Pictures of Silver,” but that actions are nonetheless more precious than any words.
What is your favourite thing about parliament?
It’s the people that make parliament for me—our parliamentary village.
Have you ever got lost in the building?
I don’t think I have ever been lost, but I am always looking for areas in the palace that I have never visited.
Who do you look up to the most?
My Dad—Doug Hoyle. He was an MP and chairman of the Parliamentary Labour Party—and has contributed to public life forever.
Which historical figure would you most like to have dinner with?
US President John F Kennedy. I would like to know how he managed to get elected—despite his Catholic faith, his liberalism and youthful idealism—during the height of the Cold War.
What is the book you most wish you’d written?
The Gruffalo. I love reading it to my grandchildren and doing all the voices. It’s their favourite and if it makes them happy, it makes me happy.
What have you changed your mind about?
I am a convert to Twenty20 cricket after being sceptical that it would not be taken seriously or have the same excitement as test matches.
Lindsay Hoyle has been MP for Chorley since 1997. He was elected speaker in November 2019
