“When I came out of the Army there was rationing, food was scarce. We didn't have a great many of the things we enjoy today. Britain was in a dire state.

“There are three things that have affected our business, greater affluence, greater mobility and the enormous strides in the packaging industry. They have changed the market beyond belief.”

“I'm unqualified to comment on the different Chancellors I've seen during my time; in many cases some are more lucky than others. The present incumbent got a hospital pass when he started.”

“I will have a rest. I've been in the business 55 years. An old friend said the first month is not very good, but that it gets better.

“I'm looking forward to the open air, which I always enjoy. Fresh air and a little sunshine this summer will be very nice.”

“With the results of the Competition Commission I think there will be great opportunities for Morrisons.

“We will we look to grow and grow rapidly. Whether we will catch Sainsbury's, who knows, but there are good prospects.”

“Plastic bags are part of the household scene. You have to look at all angles on this, it's no good just saying they are a nuisance. They look bad on barbed wire but we need joined-up thinking.”

“My tie's joining me in retirement. It's my lucky tie, the tie that launched a thousand stores. I'm a teetotaller, non-smoker and it was bought for me years ago as a present. People kept asking me ‘why not get a new one?' I'm going to have it framed.”