Chris Bryant: ‘My greatest achievement was getting elected despite everyone saying I was too flamboyant, ie gay’

The MP on feeling powerless to change the world, why he wants to time travel, and knowing all the words to Les Mis

Born in Cardiff, Chris Bryant, 63, was an Anglican priest before going into politics. He became Labour MP for Rhondda (now Rhondda and Ogmore) in 2001 and was deputy leader of the House of Commons from 2008 to 2009. He is minister of state for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. His latest book is A Life and a Half: The Unexpected Making of a Politician. He lives with his husband in Rhondda and London.

What is your greatest fear?
Totalitarianism in Europe.