Do you know some Chinese and read Chinese books?

A little bit, just a few words. For Chinese books, I have to get a translation. I like history books and biography. And I also travel a lot in China.

Do you know Mo Yan, the Nobel prize winner?

Well, we all know him now. But I've not read any of his books. I was told that we cannot buy his books because they are all sold out. So I have to wait. Hopefully, I can download his books through Apple.

As a British person, do you pay attention to English soccer? Do you watch English Premier League matches when you are in Beijing?

Anyone from Britain has to say yes to that question because it is our national sport. But I don't watch the games frequently because of the time difference. Sometimes the best games are staged in the middle of the night, especially the European games. I used to stay up very late to enjoy the games, but now it is a little difficult for me. I do follow the games since I watch the games online the next day.

Which soccer team do you like most in Europe?

In the Premier, I like Liverpool. But my home team is Leeds United, which is now in the second division. When I was a kid, they were in the Premier. They were very good in the top league. But they have dropped down for about 13 years. Now they are trying to go back to the Premier. I am a big fan of soccer. You know that last year I went to Nou Camp Stadium to watch the Spain EI Clasico, which is dubbed the national derby between Barcelona and Real Madrid. It was fantastic. I told my wife whatever the price of the ticket is I need to go for one time in my life. Messi is the best footballer ever in the world.

Does your family live with you in Beijing?

Yes, they do. I have to explain that. I have a second job for the group, which is chief representative of the John Swire & Sons China office. So my day job is mostly about the property business and sometimes I have to do some government relations and some group work. So that means I travel a lot. Beijing is my home. But I am probably there 10 days a month, usually one-third of my time. And the rest of time I travel a lot to other cities. So it is difficult for the family to follow me. If I am in Beijing they will visit me. If I am in other cities, they will probably go back to London.

You have been working with Swire Group for more than 24 years. What makes you look so energetic?

It is China. I have to explain that the experience in China always gives me a fresh start in work.

I just started doing hot yoga. It is not just for women. I find it a good way to de-stress and to relax. It makes you stay young.

China Daily

(China Daily 02/28/2013 page15)