There's a loss of faith in the banking system that for so long has been the backbone of prosperity and growth.

The era of industrial Britain, where a large section of our workforce provided cheap labour in factories and processing goods is over.

In these difficult times, when tough decisions are required, the differences between Labour and the Tories are becoming much clearer. One party believes in intervention to reduce social and economic costs and the other believes in market forces and letting things take their course.

I'm honoured to have been selected to be the Labour candidate for Manchester Central.

The Tories seem unable to make any impact north of the border.

Both the velodrome and the Commonwealth swimming pool are open to the public and are frequently used by local schools and the local community. Over the last six years young people have been inspired to take up swimming and cycling more seriously; some of them are now coming through as Olympic champions or hopefuls.

I just hope that the democratic will of the Zimbabwean people prevails. If it does we must move quickly to help restore stability and prosperity.