Gin and Tonic for the Troops

I'm heading up to Harrogate to speak to Labour members of the Local Government Association about Go Fourth.

Needless to say I'm sure there'll be lots of talk about the recent European and Local Elections and the campaign - or as I've said before - lack of it.

But I'm glad to see that we finally have a route map and a set of clear policies in 'Building Britain's Future.' It's all very well talking about our record - and by god we should be shouting about it - but you've got to tell people what we're going to do up to the election and beyond. I think the wonkers call it the 'forward agenda.' I call it a manifesto. Doen't matter you call it, you need one.

I see Oliver Letwin let the cat out of the bag saying their policies won't win them the election. If they think they can win it on style and no substance they'll be in for a hell of a  shock.

That's why it's so important to get back out there and get campaigning.

Anyway, I'll blog about the conference tomorrow and about hopefully some other good news.

Pauline's been nominated for another award for her part in our documentary on class. She's already won the Politics in the Media award at the Channel 4 Political Awards. This time she's up for Political TV Personality of the Year.

I know my place!