1.   One of the startling omissions from the maiden speech of the hon.

2.   The new prime minister admitted that her maiden speech had been too long.

3.   She told him that it was her intention to make her maiden speech at the conference.

4.   I was making my maiden speech, which is traditionally a somewhat nerve-wracking experience.

5.   But for a maiden speech, by tradition, everyone keeps absolutely silent and no one is allowed to interrupt.

6.   I shall never, ever have to make another maiden speech in the House of Commons.

7.   Mr Patten, who was making his maiden speech as Education Secretary, was eventually brought to order by the new Speaker Betty Boothroyd.