'Govt will run for five years'

PMSPEAK

On being called the weakest prime minister ever.

"Last time when I made a comment, I was largely criticised by my own party. This time I am wiser."

On refusing to rank his government on a scale from 1 to 10; last year he had given a 6 to his government.

"To conclude that there is a shortage of able persons to hold the post is wrong."

On retaining the external affairs portfolio.

"The proof of the pudding is in the eating. I should be judged not by what Mr Advani says but by what I do."

On his tenure as the prime minister.

"In a democracy, some pressures are useful."

On his relationship with the Left allies.

"She is a source of strength to me."

On Sonia Gandhi.

"It will run for five years."

On the life of his government.

"The biggest lesson in all this was to have the stamina to stay on the course."

On what he has learnt in the 15 years after initiating liberalisation.

"Participating in politics cannot be a disqualification for a governor."

On whether only non-politicians should be governors.

"I accept full responsibility for all acts of omissions and commissions of my government."

On being the Teflon in his government.