Schwarzenegger: Hillary Clinton 'Very Strong Candidate'

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, or his office at least, participated in an extended question-and-answer session with The Independent newspaper in England. The conversation veered to Hillary Rodham Clinton, foie gras and plastic surgery. He said President Bush "is doing the best he can in an extraordinarily difficult job. There are forces in the world that want to destroy America and this weighs on the president every minute of the day. I don't agree with everything he has done but I have no doubt he has the best interests of our nation at heart." Other excerpts:

Have you met Hillary Clinton? And is America ready for a female president? MARIA CASTELLI, London

"I have met her many times and she is a great person. And I don't think gender is a prerequisite to be president. If she does run for president, I have no doubt she would be a very strong candidate." [Snip.]

How do you feel about the fact California is leading the way in plastic surgery, Is it a sad reflection of how sick society has become? DARIUSH BAZAZI, Edinburgh

"Plastic surgery, like many other choices a person makes over their body, is a personal decision. However, I'm glad that we in California have some of the best plastic surgeons in the world, so that if someone does choose to undergo a procedure, they can do it knowing they are under the care of a highly qualified and licensed professional." [Snip.]

My favourite line from your movies is when you tell Sub-Zero to chill out in "The Running Man," but what does the governor of California do to chill out? BOBBY BOBSON, by e-mail

"I like to ride my motorcycle on Sunday mornings with friends when I have the time, but it's hard with all my responsibilities. I love to hang out with my wife, Maria, and our children, but I am not the type who likes to 'chill.' I have always preferred action to sitting around."

Next week: David Miliband, British Environment Secretary. Get your questions in now.

(Photo: Andrew Gombert / EPA)