A positive few days in Manchester

I have been cheered by an enjoyable few days at Labour party conference in Manchester.

Perhaps to the surprise of some, the atmosphere was upbeat and determined with little sign of the doom and gloom many people outside the party were wishing for.

It hasn't been the easiest few months for Gordon but his speech today was excellent, setting out a commanding set of policies for the future and drawing clear battle lines between what Labour has done so well and what the Conservatives would fail to do, coninciding of course with his calm handling of the world financial crisis in this past, manic week. Another of his points, importantly, was Labour's determination to continue to work closely with our neighbouring countries in the EU, something David Cameron has failed to comprehend since taking charge of the Tories.

The stark differences between Labour and the Conservatives with regards to the EU has been hammered home time and again throughout the conference. Both on the conference floor and in fringe meetings Labour MPs, ministers, MEPs and party members have been standing up and championing Europe and it's fantastic to hear!

It was also a great pleasure to see the moving tribute to my colleagues Gary Titley and Glenys Kinnock recieved following their announcement they would be stepping down at the next European elections. Both MEPs have worked tirelessly for their constituents, Gary for almost 20 years and Glenys 15, and it was touching to see Gordon and the rest of the party acknowledge their efforts so enthusiastically.