The life of Brian
Wednesday, February 25, 2009 
Yesterday morning I took this picture of my old friend Brian Monteith. I've known Brian for a long, long time - almost 30 years. We both went to Scottish universities and met through a mutual friend in student politics. We launched and edited our own student magazines. Later - albeit at different times - we both worked in PR in London for Michael Forsyth (now Lord Forsyth of Drumlean), and later still we shared an office in Leith, a short walk from where this photo was taken.
Today, after eight years as a member of the Scottish Parliament, Brian is a freelance consultant working on a number of projects including The Free Society. Most of his work however takes him abroad, and this year, he tells me, he expects to spend up to ten months in the Caribbean.
I am green with envy. The good news is that he has invited me to visit him. Excuse me while I pack my bags ...
PS. As you can see, Brian has acquired a new habit making him an early contender for Pipesmoker of the Year. You read it here first.
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Talking of pipe smokers there are vicious runours going around that Nigel Farage of UKIP has forsaken his fags for a briar and ready rub.
More details on page 94.