As part of our on-going top political blogger interview series, Total Politics speaks to John Redwood MP about juggling commitments, predicting economic turbulence and tribal politicians.

Who are you?

I am John Redwood. I have written various books and articles about the world economy, UK politics and ways to improve government.

When and why did you start blogging?

I started blogging in 2006, because I wanted to influence ways of looking at and understanding the world economy and modern politics.

Could you describe your blog?

My blog provides analysis, news and different viewpoints about the economy and politics. In the last three years it has sought to forecast and describe the inevitable credit crunch, recession and sovereign debt crises brought on by the combination of poor monetary policy in the west, bad banking regulation and the excesses of some credit institutions. I also sought to provide a humorous commentary on the build up of UK debt in the period 2008-10.

What do you think of the Lib-Con coalition?

I support the Lib-Con Coalition government in the UK. I think it is important that the two parties work together to tackle the obvious problems in financial and government management that they inherited.

As well as a prolific blogger, you are also a writer and a busy MP. Where do you find the time?

In past years I have enjoyed being the chairman of a large industrial company, a government minister and an author, as well as my principal role as MP. The MP's life is built around long hours and flexibility, so MPs can take on very busy second jobs like being a cabinet minister.

What’s the one aim of your blog?

The main aim of my blog is to contribute to the public debate and understanding of the big issues affecting our lives and prosperity. The immediate thing I want to change is how we discuss the management of public spending, by pointing out that there is no need to have damaging cuts in public services given the amount of money available to the public sector over the next few years.

Favourite politician?

My favourite politician is Elizabeth 1st.

Least favourite politician?

My least favourite politicians are those who breathe tribal hatred of their opponents and are unprepared to understand the other point of view.