In the current climate motorists have a long list of issues from which to choose to raise on the doorstep. Policies aimed at reducing emissions - like the changes to Vehicle Excise Duty or here in Manchester the proposals for congestion charges - are not without controversy.

At times unpopular measures are needed in order to change behaviour.

What the Lib Dems have failed to do is offer any meaningful agenda for government or for power.

Funding for sports (and the arts) are often the first things facing the chop in difficult times.

When the heart stops for one beat it is desire, when it stops for one life time it is love

As the economy faces such difficulties, more tough questions need to be asked about what the Tories would do if elected. Their ideology of free markets and small government needs challenging. That has to be part of our job.

Today the demands are for even higher standards in the quality of care, for greater flexibility and convenience in treatment times, and for more prevention through screening and health checks.