25/09/2006

Brown lays out leadership plans at Labour conference

Chancellor Gordon Brown has laid his claim to be the next Prime Minister of Britain in a speech at the Labour party conference in Manchester.

Mr Brown used his speech to pay tribute to Tony Blair, saying that it had been "a privilege" to work with him, although he admitted that they had differing opinions at times.

Mr Brown said: "It's hardly surprising that, as in any relationship, there have been times when we've differed. And where over these years differences have distracted from what matters I regret that, as I know Tony does too."

The Chancellor also said that he would "relish" the opportunity to take on David Cameron's Conservatives.

In a move which has been seen as an attempt to smooth over the recent party rows over the uncertainty of Mr Blair's departure date, Mr Brown said that he would want to "draw on all the talents of our party and the country."

Mr Brown's speech touched on a number of subjects, including the fight against terrorism, the UK economy, education and the environment.

He said: "I am confident that my experience and my values gives me the strength to take the tough decisions. I know that in Britain today there are great causes left, noble purposes worth fighting for, a progressive future still to be built, and this is the task that falls to our party and our government."

Mr Blair is due to give his final speech as prime minister and party leader at the conference on Tuesday.

(KMcA/EF)

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