BOROUGH MP Andrew Miller was one of the first to congratulate Gordon Brown as he took over the leadership of the Labour Party in Manchester on Sunday.

Mr Miller said: 'Gordon Brown succeeds a Prime Minister who, over the last 10 years, has revitalised this country.

'But today there are ever more challenges, requiring new priorities and policies to meet changing needs and, in Gordon, I believe we have the man to take the country forward.'

Mr Miller added: 'In his speech to the Labour Party Gordon highlighted some of his priorities for the coming months - housing, education and the NHS - and I agree with him.

'Housing must be a priority, with all those wanting to get on the housing ladder for the first time able to do so. Equally, every child is entitled to the best education opportunities and every family a healthcare service second to none.

'The new leader is also well aware of the challenges that globalisation brings, I applaud his vision to ensure the public is informed and consulted, the police supported, and there is neighbourhood policing in every community of the country - and also welcome his emphasis on speaking up for the shared British values of liberty, civic duty and fairness to all.'

Mr Miller went on: 'As Chancellor he showed he was prepared to roll up his sleeves and help local people.

'Particularly important was his role in helping support Vauxhall Motors over the last few months.

'However, Gordon is not only concerned with ensuring a good quality of life for those living in this country, he plans to strengthen and enhance the work of the Department of Inter national Development and align aid, debt relief and trade policies to wage an unremitting battle against the poverty, illiteracy, disease and environmental degradation that it has fallen to our generation to er adicate.

'As Prime Minister I am sure he will do his utmost to ensure we will meet all of the many challenges that are before us in our ever-changing world, and it will be an honour to work with him.'