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Cameron and Clegg visit Essex for coalition fightback: Politics live blog Cameron and Clegg visit Essex for coalition fightback: Politics live blog
(39 minutes later)
4.42pm: It's been quite since I lasted posted because we've had some problems with our blogging tools. Sorry about that. But they seem to be fine again now.
Here's some reaction to the the Cameron/Clegg Q&A.

James Kirkup at the Telegraph says Cameron and Clegg had quite a grim offering for the electorate.
As the PM put his jacket back on and wound up the event, there weren't many smiles visible on the faces of the audience: many of the questions put to the two men boiled down to saying: when are you going to stop talking and actually do something to sort this mess out? If Britain was ever charmed by the Coalition's leading couple, the loving feeling is now long gone.
From the Daily Mail's Tim Shipman on Twitter
That relaunch looked to me about as successful as the North Korean missile launch... #kimjongdave #kimjongnick
From the Times's Michael Savage on Twitter
The tractor factory Cam and Clegg are visiting appears to make Big Blue tractors that pull little yellow trailers...
From PoliticsHome's Paul Waugh on Twitter
Suspect PM will regret "What you call austerity, I call efficiency". Sounded like "You say cutbacks, I say fightback.."
Dubbing 'austerity' as mere 'efficiency' falls straight into 'out of touch' trap *and* undermines PM's 'we're not accountants' line. Genius
From Labour's Kevin Brennan on Twitter
Cameron Clegg presser - overall impression? 2 posh boys who know the price of everything and the value of nothing.
From the Observer's Daniel Boffey
Go on Cleggy... Take your jacket off. Dave made you look a fool with that jacket move.. In fact, take your shirt off. Show Dave who boss
4.09pm: It's over. As with Ed Miliband's Q&A this morning, this did not contain anything particularly new (although Nick Clegg sounded less committed to Lords reform than ever, and the tone of his remarks, and David Cameron's, suggest that Gary Gibbons is on the right track in his Channel 4 News blog - see 3.07pm). But this wasn't about supposed to be about a news announcement. This was a piece of theatre, designed to show that the coalition is in touch with people's concerns and functioniong. We really need a verdict from a body language expert.
I'll post a proper summary shortly.
4.06pm: Final question.
Q: You talk about jobs. What's been holding you back?
Cameron says the economy was more badly damaged than people realised.
He says he has to be "very frank" with people. It will be tough. They cannot just "pump the bubble back up". But this recovery must be "built to last", not "built on sand" like the last one.
Clegg says the latest forecasts say the British government will be 11% smaller in 2016 than it would have been if the crash had not happened.
But he says he is "very optimistic" about Britain's potential. Pointing out that a tractor is coming off the production line at the factory every four minutes, he says Britain has under-sold its potential.
3.57pm: More questions.
Q: Will there be more quantitative easing this year?
Clegg says he cannot talk about that. It's a matter for the Bank of England. But the Bank can only act if the government is doing its bit to cut the deficit.
Cameron says that's "absolutely right". If the government relaxed its deficit reduction plans, interest rates would go up. A 1 point rise in interest rates would cost the average family £1,000 a year in extra interest rate payments.
Q: What are the implications for Britain of the French election?
Cameron says the French will have to deal with their deficits.
Clegg says that the idea that people in the rest of the EU are not bothered about reducing their deficits.
Q: Why are you pushing through Lords reform?
Cameron says this is not the most important thing the government is doing. But parliament can do more than one thing at a time. He thinks it would be good to have peers elected. "It's a perferctly sensible reform for parliament to consider," he says.
Clegg says he is more interested in apprenticeships than law reforms. But that does not mean you cannot do Lords reform too. A "smidgeon of democracy" would do no harm, he says.

Q: What evidence is there that you are listening to the election results? What has changed?
Cameron says he is focusing on the economy, on the things that matter. He will be checking that the work programme is working, checking that apprenticeships are being offered, and opening up export markets. That will be the focus of his time. It's focus and delivery, he says.
Clegg says that where their two parties "got a beating" last week was in the big cities. From that, he takes the lesson that the coalition must show that it is governing for the whole country. Some parts of the country have been over-reliant on subsidies from Whitehall. Those were funded by revenues from the City of London. But the model has now broken. The money is no longer there. Whoever was in government would have to face the challenge of rebuilding those economies.
3.52pm: More questions.3.52pm: More questions.
Q: What are you going to do to cut the cost of fuel, especially for farmers?Q: What are you going to do to cut the cost of fuel, especially for farmers?
Cameron says farmers already benefit from red diesel. The government has tried to keep fuel prices down. It cancelled some of the duty increases in the pipeline. And it cut duty. But there is a limit to what the government can do.Cameron says farmers already benefit from red diesel. The government has tried to keep fuel prices down. It cancelled some of the duty increases in the pipeline. And it cut duty. But there is a limit to what the government can do.
Q: What will the legacy from the Olympics be?Q: What will the legacy from the Olympics be?
Clegg says people have not realised how exciting the Olympics will be. The eyes of the world will be on London. Britain will be able to show itself off as a diverse country, and as a young country.Clegg says people have not realised how exciting the Olympics will be. The eyes of the world will be on London. Britain will be able to show itself off as a diverse country, and as a young country.
(Eh? Where did he get that idea?)(Eh? Where did he get that idea?)
Clegg says it will also encourage people to get involved in sport. It will be a showcase.Clegg says it will also encourage people to get involved in sport. It will be a showcase.
Cameron (who has now removed his jacket) says the School Olympics has been a great success. The finals are taking place this week.Cameron (who has now removed his jacket) says the School Olympics has been a great success. The finals are taking place this week.
Almost all the venues will have a tangible legacy, he says.Almost all the venues will have a tangible legacy, he says.
3.49pm: Next question.3.49pm: Next question.
Q: How will you ensure that British equipment appeals to British famers?Q: How will you ensure that British equipment appeals to British famers?
Through quality, Cameron says. He says this is the last factory in the UK making tractors. Most of its tractors go into the export market.Through quality, Cameron says. He says this is the last factory in the UK making tractors. Most of its tractors go into the export market.
Q: Will France remain one of the UK's biggest customers?Q: Will France remain one of the UK's biggest customers?
Clegg says France is one of Britain's most important allies. President Hollande wants more emphasis on growth. Who would disagree with that? Hollande knows that you cannot create growth on the sands of debt. Any emphasis on growth, from whatever side of the political spectrum, has to be good, he says.Clegg says France is one of Britain's most important allies. President Hollande wants more emphasis on growth. Who would disagree with that? Hollande knows that you cannot create growth on the sands of debt. Any emphasis on growth, from whatever side of the political spectrum, has to be good, he says.
Cameron says he agrees. To promote growth, you have to look at the things that are holding people back.Cameron says he agrees. To promote growth, you have to look at the things that are holding people back.
The single market is not even finished, he says.The single market is not even finished, he says.
3.47pm: Next question.

Q: Are you going to increase manufacturing apprenticeships? Have you got a plan?		3.47pm: Next question.

Q: Are you going to increase manufacturing apprenticeships? Have you got a plan?
Not only have we got a plan, says Clegg, but we are doing it. He says this is one area where both parties are agreed. Vocational education should be valued more highly.Not only have we got a plan, says Clegg, but we are doing it. He says this is one area where both parties are agreed. Vocational education should be valued more highly.
Cameron says Clegg is right. At Rolls Royce, about half the members of the board started as apprentices.Cameron says Clegg is right. At Rolls Royce, about half the members of the board started as apprentices.
3.43pm: The two men are taking questions now.3.43pm: The two men are taking questions now.
Q: You two are not singing from the same hymn sheet, are you? When one party comes up with a policy, the other wants to water it down.Q: You two are not singing from the same hymn sheet, are you? When one party comes up with a policy, the other wants to water it down.
Cameron says the government has taken some difficult decisions. The two parties had different views on the economy. But they put those aside.Cameron says the government has taken some difficult decisions. The two parties had different views on the economy. But they put those aside.
On welfare they have taken difficult decisions too.On welfare they have taken difficult decisions too.
They are getting immigration under control.They are getting immigration under control.
We are not always going to agree. But in the end we've produced some pretty chunky, clear policies of things that needed to be done.We are not always going to agree. But in the end we've produced some pretty chunky, clear policies of things that needed to be done.
Clegg says the questioner should judge him and Cameron by their actions, not their words. And he should pay less attention to the press.Clegg says the questioner should judge him and Cameron by their actions, not their words. And he should pay less attention to the press.
Originally people criticised the government for doing too much, not too little, he says.Originally people criticised the government for doing too much, not too little, he says.
He says he is proud of the fact that the government is giving more money to schools for disadvantaged children, and that the tax allowance has been increased.He says he is proud of the fact that the government is giving more money to schools for disadvantaged children, and that the tax allowance has been increased.
Politicians working together is a good thing, he says.Politicians working together is a good thing, he says.
3.39pm: Nick Clegg is speaking now. He says the blue and yellow livery of the CNH tractor firm is "tailor-made" for the coalition. He is wearing a yellow tie, and Cameron has a blue one.3.39pm: Nick Clegg is speaking now. He says the blue and yellow livery of the CNH tractor firm is "tailor-made" for the coalition. He is wearing a yellow tie, and Cameron has a blue one.
The economy suffered a heart attack, he says. Recovering from it is painstaking work.The economy suffered a heart attack, he says. Recovering from it is painstaking work.
Dealing with the deficit sounds dull. But we have a moral duty to our children and grandchildren to deal with the deficit, he says.Dealing with the deficit sounds dull. But we have a moral duty to our children and grandchildren to deal with the deficit, he says.
He says we owe it to youngsters to "lift the deadweight of debt".He says we owe it to youngsters to "lift the deadweight of debt".
(He seems to be muddling deficit and debt. The national debt is going to be around for a very long time. I'm afraid our children will still be dealing with it.)(He seems to be muddling deficit and debt. The national debt is going to be around for a very long time. I'm afraid our children will still be dealing with it.)
Clegg says he wants to create the conditions for growth. The government needs to encourage more bank lending. And it needs to invest in infrastructure, using public money and private money.Clegg says he wants to create the conditions for growth. The government needs to encourage more bank lending. And it needs to invest in infrastructure, using public money and private money.
3.35pm: David Cameron is speaking now.3.35pm: David Cameron is speaking now.
He says it is difficult for families because times are tough. But the coalition is as needed today as much as it was two years ago.He says it is difficult for families because times are tough. But the coalition is as needed today as much as it was two years ago.
He says the government cannot abandon its deficit reduction plan. When you have a debt problem, you cannot solve it be wracking up more debt. Interest rates have to be kept low.He says the government cannot abandon its deficit reduction plan. When you have a debt problem, you cannot solve it be wracking up more debt. Interest rates have to be kept low.
But that does not mean the government doesn't have to go for growth. The government needs to redouble its efforts to promote growth. And it needs to rebalance the economy. Too much wealth is concentrated in the south, he says.But that does not mean the government doesn't have to go for growth. The government needs to redouble its efforts to promote growth. And it needs to rebalance the economy. Too much wealth is concentrated in the south, he says.
(Not sure that's a good thing to say in Essex.)(Not sure that's a good thing to say in Essex.)
Cameron says he and Clegg want to leave something "more worthwhile" behind them.Cameron says he and Clegg want to leave something "more worthwhile" behind them.
People feel they are being punished for doing the right thing. He will address this, through means like welfare reform.People feel they are being punished for doing the right thing. He will address this, through means like welfare reform.
Everything the government does "is not just about the dry numbers of the economy", he says.Everything the government does "is not just about the dry numbers of the economy", he says.
3.32pm: Cameron and Clegg are at a tractor factory in Basildon. According to the BBC's Norman Smith, the hack's aren't happy.3.32pm: Cameron and Clegg are at a tractor factory in Basildon. According to the BBC's Norman Smith, the hack's aren't happy.
Oooo dear. Tractor folk request for we hacks to wear canary yellow vests at Rose Garden Two provoking minor revolt among hackerati.Oooo dear. Tractor folk request for we hacks to wear canary yellow vests at Rose Garden Two provoking minor revolt among hackerati.
— norman smith (@BBCNormanS) May 8, 2012— norman smith (@BBCNormanS) May 8, 2012
3.23pm: David Cameron and Nick Clegg are about to stage their coalition fightback, or renew their coalition wedding vows, as the jargon has it.3.23pm: David Cameron and Nick Clegg are about to stage their coalition fightback, or renew their coalition wedding vows, as the jargon has it.
In the Times today (paywall), Roland Watson has an excellent account of the state of the coalition relationship. He starts with an account of what happened after the Guardian revealed that the 50p top rate of tax would be cut in the budget.In the Times today (paywall), Roland Watson has an excellent account of the state of the coalition relationship. He starts with an account of what happened after the Guardian revealed that the 50p top rate of tax would be cut in the budget.
David Cameron was at home in Oxfordshire, Nick Clegg was in his constituency office in Sheffield. George Osborne was in the Treasury and Danny Alexander in the playground of his old primary school in Fort William. And the Budget's biggest secret was all over the papers. "This is no way to run a government," snapped the Chancellor as the coalition's four powerbrokers held a tense telephone conference. The Budget was five days away but its centrepiece, the cut in the 50p top rate of tax, had leaked.David Cameron was at home in Oxfordshire, Nick Clegg was in his constituency office in Sheffield. George Osborne was in the Treasury and Danny Alexander in the playground of his old primary school in Fort William. And the Budget's biggest secret was all over the papers. "This is no way to run a government," snapped the Chancellor as the coalition's four powerbrokers held a tense telephone conference. The Budget was five days away but its centrepiece, the cut in the 50p top rate of tax, had leaked.
Mr Osborne vented his anger at the Liberal Democrats. He may not have been able to lock eyes with Mr Clegg, but his barbs were aimed at the Deputy Prime Minister. The exchange jolted those on the line. However big their disagreements, ministers pride themselves on keeping it congenial.Mr Osborne vented his anger at the Liberal Democrats. He may not have been able to lock eyes with Mr Clegg, but his barbs were aimed at the Deputy Prime Minister. The exchange jolted those on the line. However big their disagreements, ministers pride themselves on keeping it congenial.
Watson quotes a Liberal Democrat source seeming to admit that the Lib Dems were the source of the leak.Watson quotes a Liberal Democrat source seeming to admit that the Lib Dems were the source of the leak.

"I understand why George should be pissed off," said one Lib Dem. "But George got Nick to take a very big gamble. It had to be explained to our MPs. If it had just been dropped on the party during Budget day it would have been hugely combustible."
"I understand why George should be pissed off," said one Lib Dem. "But George got Nick to take a very big gamble. It had to be explained to our MPs. If it had just been dropped on the party during Budget day it would have been hugely combustible."

And he ends with this passage about what happens next.
And he ends with this passage about what happens next.

And then there a view that this romance could yet last a lot longer. "Whether this goes to 2015 or 2020 or 2025, however long this coalition lasts, it will be a transaction," said one Tory.
And then there a view that this romance could yet last a lot longer. "Whether this goes to 2015 or 2020 or 2025, however long this coalition lasts, it will be a transaction," said one Tory.
For the time being, their hearts and souls are in it. And it is personal. When Mr Cameron rebuffed Lady Warsi, he was warning the Cabinet that it would be fatal to allow his relationship with Mr Clegg to corrode.For the time being, their hearts and souls are in it. And it is personal. When Mr Cameron rebuffed Lady Warsi, he was warning the Cabinet that it would be fatal to allow his relationship with Mr Clegg to corrode.
"We don't want the coalition to fall apart and we don't want to lose Nick," said one present. "Can you imagine having a coalition with anyone other than Nick?" Dave can't."We don't want the coalition to fall apart and we don't want to lose Nick," said one present. "Can you imagine having a coalition with anyone other than Nick?" Dave can't.
3.07pm: Here's an afternoon reading list.3.07pm: Here's an afternoon reading list.
• Gary Gibbon on his Channel 4 News blog says the government is going to back down on Lords reform and that plans to cut the size of the Commons could also be postponed.• Gary Gibbon on his Channel 4 News blog says the government is going to back down on Lords reform and that plans to cut the size of the Commons could also be postponed.
If that were to happen, the Tories would lose out on the predicted advantage they'd get from the changes in 2015; they might even lose out beyond 2015 if the next government didn't support them. They would, though, avoid a bloodbath over Lords reform, and they would cheer up some of their own backbenchers worried about their own seats going under the original boundary change plans. One MP whose seat was disappearing and would be saved under this wheeze would be Nadine Dorries ( Mid Bedfordshire, 15,000 Tory majority).If that were to happen, the Tories would lose out on the predicted advantage they'd get from the changes in 2015; they might even lose out beyond 2015 if the next government didn't support them. They would, though, avoid a bloodbath over Lords reform, and they would cheer up some of their own backbenchers worried about their own seats going under the original boundary change plans. One MP whose seat was disappearing and would be saved under this wheeze would be Nadine Dorries ( Mid Bedfordshire, 15,000 Tory majority).
The Lib Dems would appease some of their own MPs worried about losing their seats in the Boundary revision. And for those that lose seats anyway - through a collision with the electorate - there will still be resting place for them in the House of Lords where they can give continuing public service to a grateful public.The Lib Dems would appease some of their own MPs worried about losing their seats in the Boundary revision. And for those that lose seats anyway - through a collision with the electorate - there will still be resting place for them in the House of Lords where they can give continuing public service to a grateful public.
• Stephan Shakespeare at ConservativeHome says Boris Johnson illustrates how the most 'authentic' politicians can be those with a big gap between their public persona and their private character.• Stephan Shakespeare at ConservativeHome says Boris Johnson illustrates how the most 'authentic' politicians can be those with a big gap between their public persona and their private character.
Boris is a very different person from the way he is generally taken; it's an ironic phenomenon: so often our most 'authentic' politicians are those with the biggest gap between their public persona and their private natures. Boris is not bumbling but highly calculating, with a strong strategic sense behind all his moves; and he's focused and bold in pursuit of his clear ambition. Don't forget, going for Mayor was high-risk – not many believed he could succeed. But it was an essential move for him. And his mind has genuine curiosity and originality, capable of surprises. When I last had lunch with him, he was preparing to learn Arabic.Boris is a very different person from the way he is generally taken; it's an ironic phenomenon: so often our most 'authentic' politicians are those with the biggest gap between their public persona and their private natures. Boris is not bumbling but highly calculating, with a strong strategic sense behind all his moves; and he's focused and bold in pursuit of his clear ambition. Don't forget, going for Mayor was high-risk – not many believed he could succeed. But it was an essential move for him. And his mind has genuine curiosity and originality, capable of surprises. When I last had lunch with him, he was preparing to learn Arabic.
It has been suggested that Boris won London because he is a true Conservative. That doesn't ring true. The important point is subtly different, and cannot be lightly dismissed: he showed that being a confident Conservative and winning a majority need not in any way be contradictory, even in a skeptical, sophisticated city like London. That is an important learning for a party that has been uncomfortable with itself for twenty years.It has been suggested that Boris won London because he is a true Conservative. That doesn't ring true. The important point is subtly different, and cannot be lightly dismissed: he showed that being a confident Conservative and winning a majority need not in any way be contradictory, even in a skeptical, sophisticated city like London. That is an important learning for a party that has been uncomfortable with itself for twenty years.
Will he ever be Prime Minister? The timing looks tricky for him, but I believe it may yet suit him perfectly. There is no hurry, and Boris is not the type to challenge David Cameron. In spite of occasional verbal barbs, Boris must know that he will do better to wait until there is a natural vacancy, years away. The Mayor and the Prime Minister are likely to play it wisely and benefit rather than hurt each other. In the meantime, Boris will do more and more to demonstrate his fitness for the highest office by increasingly focusing on London's economy.Will he ever be Prime Minister? The timing looks tricky for him, but I believe it may yet suit him perfectly. There is no hurry, and Boris is not the type to challenge David Cameron. In spite of occasional verbal barbs, Boris must know that he will do better to wait until there is a natural vacancy, years away. The Mayor and the Prime Minister are likely to play it wisely and benefit rather than hurt each other. In the meantime, Boris will do more and more to demonstrate his fitness for the highest office by increasingly focusing on London's economy.
• Gavin Kelly at the New Statesman says Labour do not have much time left to resolve some big questions about public spending.• Gavin Kelly at the New Statesman says Labour do not have much time left to resolve some big questions about public spending.
For an upbeat Labour, the clock is ticking loud and clear. Over recent months this point has often been made in relation to the risk that the electorate forms a settled and negative view of the leadership or the legacy of the previous Labour government. But just as pressing an issue is how Labour gets itself into a position to respond to the single biggest challenge it faces between now and the next election: the spending review that George Osborne has pencilled in for autumn 2013, which will span the years 2015-17.For an upbeat Labour, the clock is ticking loud and clear. Over recent months this point has often been made in relation to the risk that the electorate forms a settled and negative view of the leadership or the legacy of the previous Labour government. But just as pressing an issue is how Labour gets itself into a position to respond to the single biggest challenge it faces between now and the next election: the spending review that George Osborne has pencilled in for autumn 2013, which will span the years 2015-17.
2.55pm: The Labour-led Welsh government has published the evidence it has submitted to the Treasury's review of regional pay. You can read the 21-page document here (pdf). In a statement, Jane Hutt, the Welsh finance minister, says there is no evidence to support George Osborne's claim that high public sector pay is holding back private sector growth.2.55pm: The Labour-led Welsh government has published the evidence it has submitted to the Treasury's review of regional pay. You can read the 21-page document here (pdf). In a statement, Jane Hutt, the Welsh finance minister, says there is no evidence to support George Osborne's claim that high public sector pay is holding back private sector growth.
Contrary to what the Treasury states, there is no good case for thinking that the gap between public and private sector pay is larger in Wales than in other parts of the UK. We also can not see any evidence that "excessive" public sector pay has been "crowding out" private sector employment in Wales.Contrary to what the Treasury states, there is no good case for thinking that the gap between public and private sector pay is larger in Wales than in other parts of the UK. We also can not see any evidence that "excessive" public sector pay has been "crowding out" private sector employment in Wales.
In fact, since devolution and until the recent recession, Wales has been outperforming the UK in terms of its private sector jobs growth – this is completely at odds with the Treasury view.In fact, since devolution and until the recent recession, Wales has been outperforming the UK in terms of its private sector jobs growth – this is completely at odds with the Treasury view.
It is also clear that a number of important factors have simply been ignored in the Treasury's analysis, and that once these are factored in, there is no clear evidence that a persistent pay differential exists across the public sector as a whole.It is also clear that a number of important factors have simply been ignored in the Treasury's analysis, and that once these are factored in, there is no clear evidence that a persistent pay differential exists across the public sector as a whole.
In fact, if there is a public sector pay differential, it is found primarily amongst lower paid workers, and lower paid women in particular. I make no apology for the steps that we have taken in Wales to address poverty and to tackle the gender pay gap. It would be completely unfair to single out these groups of public sector workers for severe reductions or freezing of pay.In fact, if there is a public sector pay differential, it is found primarily amongst lower paid workers, and lower paid women in particular. I make no apology for the steps that we have taken in Wales to address poverty and to tackle the gender pay gap. It would be completely unfair to single out these groups of public sector workers for severe reductions or freezing of pay.
Attempts by the UK Government to engineer reductions in public sector pay in Wales would be particularly harmful in present circumstances. Any reductions in pay will lead to lower levels of spending and hence are most likely to result in knock-on effects for the Welsh economy and a loss of jobs.Attempts by the UK Government to engineer reductions in public sector pay in Wales would be particularly harmful in present circumstances. Any reductions in pay will lead to lower levels of spending and hence are most likely to result in knock-on effects for the Welsh economy and a loss of jobs.
A policy of regional or local market facing public sector pay would be economically damaging and socially divisive for Wales. Driving down pay in our most disadvantaged communities at a time of economic stress and exacerbating pay gaps between men and women, would be bad for Wales and harmful to the UK as a whole.A policy of regional or local market facing public sector pay would be economically damaging and socially divisive for Wales. Driving down pay in our most disadvantaged communities at a time of economic stress and exacerbating pay gaps between men and women, would be bad for Wales and harmful to the UK as a whole.
2.18pm: My colleague Patrick Wintour has filed his story on Ed Miliband's Q&A. It includes a quote in which he links TOWIE and aspiration rather more neatly than in the ITV clip I mentioned earlier. (See 1.52pm.)2.18pm: My colleague Patrick Wintour has filed his story on Ed Miliband's Q&A. It includes a quote in which he links TOWIE and aspiration rather more neatly than in the ITV clip I mentioned earlier. (See 1.52pm.)
Miliband said the missing ingredient for contemporary Britain was growth, and that the economy was no longer working for working people.Miliband said the missing ingredient for contemporary Britain was growth, and that the economy was no longer working for working people.
He claimed Thatcher 30 years ago promised to make the economy work better for them, especially in places like Essex. "The reality now for people aspiring to get on is that they feel they are running up against a brick wall in terms of unemployment and getting on the housing ladder," he said. "There is another way for Essex."He claimed Thatcher 30 years ago promised to make the economy work better for them, especially in places like Essex. "The reality now for people aspiring to get on is that they feel they are running up against a brick wall in terms of unemployment and getting on the housing ladder," he said. "There is another way for Essex."
2.10pm: On the World at One the Conservative MP David Ruffley said that, given the state of the economy, David Cameron should effectively tear up the coalition agreement and just press ahead with tax cuts and deregulation. If the Lib Dems did not like it, they could walk out, he said. Referring to the coalition agreement, he said: "Quite a few of my senior colleagues think that was then and this is now." He went on:2.10pm: On the World at One the Conservative MP David Ruffley said that, given the state of the economy, David Cameron should effectively tear up the coalition agreement and just press ahead with tax cuts and deregulation. If the Lib Dems did not like it, they could walk out, he said. Referring to the coalition agreement, he said: "Quite a few of my senior colleagues think that was then and this is now." He went on:

It wouldn't be us pulling out of the coalition. It would be the Liberals not acting in the national economic interest, so it wouldn't be a question of breaking up the coalition.
It wouldn't be us pulling out of the coalition. It would be the Liberals not acting in the national economic interest, so it wouldn't be a question of breaking up the coalition.
We have to recognise that to get people into employment you have to start reducing the tax burden and if the Liberals don't want to join in that endeavour, then they might want to have an earlier meeting with the electorate at a general election.We have to recognise that to get people into employment you have to start reducing the tax burden and if the Liberals don't want to join in that endeavour, then they might want to have an earlier meeting with the electorate at a general election.
We are not a million miles away from the Lib Dems but I think it's time to put the foot down and say this is about the national interest and you have to join us in radical measures.We are not a million miles away from the Lib Dems but I think it's time to put the foot down and say this is about the national interest and you have to join us in radical measures.
1.52pm: Here's the full quote from the Ed Miliband interview that I mentioned earlier. (See 12.00pm.)1.52pm: Here's the full quote from the Ed Miliband interview that I mentioned earlier. (See 12.00pm.)
I must confess I'm not as avid a watcher [of The Only Way Is Essex] as I should be. But what I say is that Essex has always stood for aspiration. You know, 30 years ago Mrs Thatcher, she came along and she promised that she would make things better for people here. Now, we can have an argument about whether that was the case or not. But what's the reality now is that for people aspiring to get on here in Essex, people wanting to do better for themselves, they feel like they are runnning up against a brick wall. They feel when it comes to their sons or daughters looking for work, when it comes to trying go get onto the housing ladder, when it comes to their living standards, things are getting worse, not better. That's what's we've got to change in this country.I must confess I'm not as avid a watcher [of The Only Way Is Essex] as I should be. But what I say is that Essex has always stood for aspiration. You know, 30 years ago Mrs Thatcher, she came along and she promised that she would make things better for people here. Now, we can have an argument about whether that was the case or not. But what's the reality now is that for people aspiring to get on here in Essex, people wanting to do better for themselves, they feel like they are runnning up against a brick wall. They feel when it comes to their sons or daughters looking for work, when it comes to trying go get onto the housing ladder, when it comes to their living standards, things are getting worse, not better. That's what's we've got to change in this country.
Miliband gave this answer in response to a question about his favourite character in The Only Way Is Essex. So, asked about his favourite TOWIE character, the first person he mentions is Margaret Thatcher. I can't work out whether that's cool or not. But I would love to know what she has to say about vajazzling.Miliband gave this answer in response to a question about his favourite character in The Only Way Is Essex. So, asked about his favourite TOWIE character, the first person he mentions is Margaret Thatcher. I can't work out whether that's cool or not. But I would love to know what she has to say about vajazzling.
You can watch the Miliband clip here.You can watch the Miliband clip here.
1.33pm: At his Essex Q&A this morning Ed Miliband said he was worred that people thought all political parties were the same. (See 10.50am.) Ipsos MORI have just sent out some research that backs this up. It shows large number of people say they do not know what the main poltical parties stand for. The problem affects all parties, but it is particularly serious for the Lib Dems.1.33pm: At his Essex Q&A this morning Ed Miliband said he was worred that people thought all political parties were the same. (See 10.50am.) Ipsos MORI have just sent out some research that backs this up. It shows large number of people say they do not know what the main poltical parties stand for. The problem affects all parties, but it is particularly serious for the Lib Dems.
Here are the figures.Here are the figures.
Q: I don't know what the Lib Dems stand for these days.Q: I don't know what the Lib Dems stand for these days.
Agree: 64%
Disagree: 23%		Agree: 64%
Disagree: 23%
Q: I don't know what Labour stands for these days.Q: I don't know what Labour stands for these days.
Agree: 57%
Disagree: 29%		Agree: 57%
Disagree: 29%
Q: I don't know what the Conservative party stands for these days.Q: I don't know what the Conservative party stands for these days.
Agree: 44%
Disagree: 43%		Agree: 44%
Disagree: 43%
Even party supporters are confused. Some 42% of Labour voters, 41% of Lib Dem voters and 37% of Conservative voters say they do not know what the party they vote for stands for.Even party supporters are confused. Some 42% of Labour voters, 41% of Lib Dem voters and 37% of Conservative voters say they do not know what the party they vote for stands for.
1.00pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.1.00pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.
• Ed Miliband has said that he wants to restore people's faith in politics by showing that politicians can make a difference. "I think there is a crisis of politics in this country," he said. On a visit to Essex, he said that he would only make promises that he could deliver and that the government had run out of "excuses" for the "failure" of its economic policy. A Labour Queen's Speech would make getting young people into work a prioirity, he said. Miliband was making his comments a few hours before David Cameron and Nick Clegg make their own visit to Essex where they will respond to last week's eletion defeats by insisting that the coalition still serves a purpose. I'll be covering their event in detail at 3.30pm.• Ed Miliband has said that he wants to restore people's faith in politics by showing that politicians can make a difference. "I think there is a crisis of politics in this country," he said. On a visit to Essex, he said that he would only make promises that he could deliver and that the government had run out of "excuses" for the "failure" of its economic policy. A Labour Queen's Speech would make getting young people into work a prioirity, he said. Miliband was making his comments a few hours before David Cameron and Nick Clegg make their own visit to Essex where they will respond to last week's eletion defeats by insisting that the coalition still serves a purpose. I'll be covering their event in detail at 3.30pm.
• Ken Livingstone has said that Ed Miliband should stop trying to pander to the "discredited Blairite wing" of the Labour party. In a Today programme interview, Livingstone said: "If I have one criticism of Ed Miliband – and as well as being a friend, I think he is genuinely a Labour leader who will transform Britain in a way that we haven't seen for a very long time – it's that I think he is far too concerned about carrying the discredited old Blairite wing with him who bought into all this Thatcherite nonsense."• Ken Livingstone has said that Ed Miliband should stop trying to pander to the "discredited Blairite wing" of the Labour party. In a Today programme interview, Livingstone said: "If I have one criticism of Ed Miliband – and as well as being a friend, I think he is genuinely a Labour leader who will transform Britain in a way that we haven't seen for a very long time – it's that I think he is far too concerned about carrying the discredited old Blairite wing with him who bought into all this Thatcherite nonsense."
• Jim Murphy, the shadow defence secretary, has urged the government to have more respect for military traditions. In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Philip Hammond, the defence secretary, hinted that some traditional regimental names could go as the army reorganises. Murphy said this would dismay the military. "Defence is about more than inputs, outputs and spreadsheets," Murphy said. "It is also about people, tradition and pride. The country will want confidence the Defence Secretary is doing all possible to preserve important historic legacies. More has got to be done to end this uncertainty and worry."• Jim Murphy, the shadow defence secretary, has urged the government to have more respect for military traditions. In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Philip Hammond, the defence secretary, hinted that some traditional regimental names could go as the army reorganises. Murphy said this would dismay the military. "Defence is about more than inputs, outputs and spreadsheets," Murphy said. "It is also about people, tradition and pride. The country will want confidence the Defence Secretary is doing all possible to preserve important historic legacies. More has got to be done to end this uncertainty and worry."
• Lord Smith, chairman of the Environment Agency, has given his qualified support to the use of fracking. "It could be part of the answer," he told the Today programme. "The source of a domestically available gas supply would of course be - potentially - very beneficial for our energy needs. It would provide energy security which we don't necessarily have when we have to import gas from abroad. It could be affordable. However there are two very, very big ifs." Those "ifs" relate to ensuring that fracking is safe, and using carobon capture with gas-fired power stations, he said.• Lord Smith, chairman of the Environment Agency, has given his qualified support to the use of fracking. "It could be part of the answer," he told the Today programme. "The source of a domestically available gas supply would of course be - potentially - very beneficial for our energy needs. It would provide energy security which we don't necessarily have when we have to import gas from abroad. It could be affordable. However there are two very, very big ifs." Those "ifs" relate to ensuring that fracking is safe, and using carobon capture with gas-fired power stations, he said.
• Andy Coulson, the former News of the World editor, has won permission to appeal against a high court decision that News Group Newspapers does not have to pay his potential legal costs over the phone-hacking affair.• Andy Coulson, the former News of the World editor, has won permission to appeal against a high court decision that News Group Newspapers does not have to pay his potential legal costs over the phone-hacking affair.
12.46pm: Looking ahead to the Cameron/Clegg renewal of the coalition vows, the BBC's Norman Smith has posted this on Twitter.12.46pm: Looking ahead to the Cameron/Clegg renewal of the coalition vows, the BBC's Norman Smith has posted this on Twitter.
One for the cameras. Nick Clegg and PM make point of leaving Downing st together en route toEssex jardin de Rose.One for the cameras. Nick Clegg and PM make point of leaving Downing st together en route toEssex jardin de Rose.
— norman smith (@BBCNormanS) May 8, 2012— norman smith (@BBCNormanS) May 8, 2012
12.17pm: Philip Cowley and Mark Stuart, the parliamentary rebellion experts, have produced some figures on the coalition's rebellion record so far. "Some figures" doesn't really do it justice. They've produced a 117-page book, listing them all. Even the chief whip will probably draw the line at reading that, although I would strongly recommend this blog summarising their findings. They says that government MPs have never been so rebellious in the entire post-war period.12.17pm: Philip Cowley and Mark Stuart, the parliamentary rebellion experts, have produced some figures on the coalition's rebellion record so far. "Some figures" doesn't really do it justice. They've produced a 117-page book, listing them all. Even the chief whip will probably draw the line at reading that, although I would strongly recommend this blog summarising their findings. They says that government MPs have never been so rebellious in the entire post-war period.
1. The last session saw 239 rebellions by coalition MPs. This is higher than the number of rebellions by government MPs in any other session in the post-war era. Indeed, a figure of 239 is higher than in all but three entire post-war parliaments. And there were more rebellions in the 2010-12 session than in the period from 1945-1966 combined, taking in 21 years, six parliaments and six prime ministers.1. The last session saw 239 rebellions by coalition MPs. This is higher than the number of rebellions by government MPs in any other session in the post-war era. Indeed, a figure of 239 is higher than in all but three entire post-war parliaments. And there were more rebellions in the 2010-12 session than in the period from 1945-1966 combined, taking in 21 years, six parliaments and six prime ministers.
2. In relative terms, measured as a percentage of the divisions in the session, there were rebellions by coalition MPs in 44% of divisions – also without precedent in the post-war era. By party, Conservative MPs broke ranks in 28% of votes, Lib Dems MPs have done so in 24%.2. In relative terms, measured as a percentage of the divisions in the session, there were rebellions by coalition MPs in 44% of divisions – also without precedent in the post-war era. By party, Conservative MPs broke ranks in 28% of votes, Lib Dems MPs have done so in 24%.
3. Even these separate figures are very high by comparison with historic behaviour of government backbenchers. The Conservative figure is higher than the rate of rebellion by government MPs in all but eight post-war sessions. The Lib Dem rate of 24% is higher than that seen by government MPs in all but eleven post-war sessions.3. Even these separate figures are very high by comparison with historic behaviour of government backbenchers. The Conservative figure is higher than the rate of rebellion by government MPs in all but eight post-war sessions. The Lib Dem rate of 24% is higher than that seen by government MPs in all but eleven post-war sessions.
12.00pm: After his Q&A Ed Miliband gave an interview to ITV. From Lucy Manning's tweet, it sounds as if he was making a bold claim.12.00pm: After his Q&A Ed Miliband gave an interview to ITV. From Lucy Manning's tweet, it sounds as if he was making a bold claim.
In interview after, Ed Miliband invokes Mrs Thatcher says she came here & promised shed make things better. Never mind heir to Blair...In interview after, Ed Miliband invokes Mrs Thatcher says she came here & promised shed make things better. Never mind heir to Blair...
— lucy manning (@lucymanning) May 8, 2012— lucy manning (@lucymanning) May 8, 2012
I'll post the full quote when I get it.I'll post the full quote when I get it.
11.52am: The Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats would have lost around a quarter of their seats in the north of England if people had voted in a general election in the way that they voted in last week's local elections. Ed Jacobs, the political commentator who writes for the Guardian's Northerner blog, has been looking at the figures and he's produced this list of Tory MPs who would have lost their seats.11.52am: The Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats would have lost around a quarter of their seats in the north of England if people had voted in a general election in the way that they voted in last week's local elections. Ed Jacobs, the political commentator who writes for the Guardian's Northerner blog, has been looking at the figures and he's produced this list of Tory MPs who would have lost their seats.
1. Jake Berry MP (Conservative – Rossendale and Darwen)
2. Kris Hopkins MP (Conservative –Keighley)
3. David Nuttall MP (Conservative – Bury North)
4. Craig Whittaker MP (Conservative, Calder Valley)
5. John Stevenson MP (Conservative, Carlisle)
6. Jason McCartney MP (Conservative, Colne Valley)
7. Simon Reevell MP (Conservative, Dewsbury)
8. Alec Shelbrooke MP (Conservative, Elmet and Rothwell)
9. Stuart Andrew MP (Conservative, Pudsey)
10. Andrew Stephenson MP (Conservative, Pendle)
11. David Mowat MP (Conservative, Warrington South)
12. Esther McVery MP (Conservative, Wirral West)		1. Jake Berry MP (Conservative – Rossendale and Darwen)
2. Kris Hopkins MP (Conservative –Keighley)
3. David Nuttall MP (Conservative – Bury North)
4. Craig Whittaker MP (Conservative, Calder Valley)
5. John Stevenson MP (Conservative, Carlisle)
6. Jason McCartney MP (Conservative, Colne Valley)
7. Simon Reevell MP (Conservative, Dewsbury)
8. Alec Shelbrooke MP (Conservative, Elmet and Rothwell)
9. Stuart Andrew MP (Conservative, Pudsey)
10. Andrew Stephenson MP (Conservative, Pendle)
11. David Mowat MP (Conservative, Warrington South)
12. Esther McVery MP (Conservative, Wirral West)
And here's his list of Lib Dem MPs who would have lost their seats according to his figures.And here's his list of Lib Dem MPs who would have lost their seats according to his figures.
1. David Ward MP (Liberal Democrat – Bradford East)
2. Gordon Birtwistle MP (Lib Dem – Burnley)
3. John Leech MP (Liberal Democrat, Manchester Withington)		1. David Ward MP (Liberal Democrat – Bradford East)
2. Gordon Birtwistle MP (Lib Dem – Burnley)
3. John Leech MP (Liberal Democrat, Manchester Withington)
Ed is going to post more in a blog for the Northerner on Friday.Ed is going to post more in a blog for the Northerner on Friday.
11.41am: Two years ago the government published its coalition programme (pdf). Today Labour have published a progress report, The Tory-led government: A programme for no change (pdf), a neat parody of the orginal. It's a propaganda exercise, listing what Labour think are the government's failures. Essential reading for all Labour activists ...11.41am: Two years ago the government published its coalition programme (pdf). Today Labour have published a progress report, The Tory-led government: A programme for no change (pdf), a neat parody of the orginal. It's a propaganda exercise, listing what Labour think are the government's failures. Essential reading for all Labour activists ...
11.27am: Sadly Ed Miliband was not asked about Ken Livingstone's call on the Today programme for him to spend less time pandering to Labour's "discredited Blairite wing", as far as I can tell. Here's what Livingstone (pictured) had to say.11.27am: Sadly Ed Miliband was not asked about Ken Livingstone's call on the Today programme for him to spend less time pandering to Labour's "discredited Blairite wing", as far as I can tell. Here's what Livingstone (pictured) had to say.
For 30 years, Britain has taken a wrong turning. Inequality of wealth has doubled. We were told if we deregulated, if we liberated the banks, the whole economy would rise and there would be a trickle-down effect. Sadly, Tony Blair bought into that, New Labour bought into that. I think we are at a turning point in politics now.For 30 years, Britain has taken a wrong turning. Inequality of wealth has doubled. We were told if we deregulated, if we liberated the banks, the whole economy would rise and there would be a trickle-down effect. Sadly, Tony Blair bought into that, New Labour bought into that. I think we are at a turning point in politics now.
We have to make something that somebody else wants to buy, we won't just be able to rip off a bit of commission on all the financial transactions. I think a lot of the disillusion amongst working class people, whatever their colour, is that the last Labour government didn't create good jobs for working class people.We have to make something that somebody else wants to buy, we won't just be able to rip off a bit of commission on all the financial transactions. I think a lot of the disillusion amongst working class people, whatever their colour, is that the last Labour government didn't create good jobs for working class people.
If I have one criticism of Ed Miliband – and as well as being a friend, I think he is genuinely a Labour leader who will transform Britain in a way that we haven't seen for a very long time – it's that I think he is far too concerned about carrying the discredited old Blairite wing with him who bought into all this Thatcherite nonsense.If I have one criticism of Ed Miliband – and as well as being a friend, I think he is genuinely a Labour leader who will transform Britain in a way that we haven't seen for a very long time – it's that I think he is far too concerned about carrying the discredited old Blairite wing with him who bought into all this Thatcherite nonsense.
My colleague Hélène Mulholland has a full story about Livingstone's interview here.My colleague Hélène Mulholland has a full story about Livingstone's interview here.
11.09am: My colleague Patrick Wintour, the FT journalist Kiran Stacey and the ITV journalist Lucy Manning have been tweeting from the Ed Miliband event.11.09am: My colleague Patrick Wintour, the FT journalist Kiran Stacey and the ITV journalist Lucy Manning have been tweeting from the Ed Miliband event.
Here's Patrick.Here's Patrick.
Applause at miliband harlow event when pressed to be more radical like Hollande. Many personal stories of unemployment and housing shortage.Applause at miliband harlow event when pressed to be more radical like Hollande. Many personal stories of unemployment and housing shortage.
— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) May 8, 2012— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) May 8, 2012
"The most important thing is that we only make promises we can deliver".Ed mili"The most important thing is that we only make promises we can deliver".Ed mili
— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) May 8, 2012— Patrick Wintour (@patrickwintour) May 8, 2012
And here's Kiran.And here's Kiran.
EdM has just promised to do something about ppl skiving off work? What though? A clampdown on sick pay? What wd unions say about that?EdM has just promised to do something about ppl skiving off work? What though? A clampdown on sick pay? What wd unions say about that?
— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012
EdM's theme of the day: helping the right ppl, not the wrong ppl. Potentially divisive language...EdM's theme of the day: helping the right ppl, not the wrong ppl. Potentially divisive language...
— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012
A glimpse of the probs Hollande's victory cd pose EdM. Lab members now want to pull him to the left.A glimpse of the probs Hollande's victory cd pose EdM. Lab members now want to pull him to the left.
— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012
And here's Lucy.And here's Lucy.
Man in Q&A says he ran the marathon in 4.51 Ed can't resist pointing out that's an hour quicker than @edballsmpMan in Q&A says he ran the marathon in 4.51 Ed can't resist pointing out that's an hour quicker than @edballsmp
— lucy manning (@lucymanning) May 8, 2012— lucy manning (@lucymanning) May 8, 2012
Ask Ed Miliband if The Only Way is Austerity. Doesn't really answer says govt promised things would get better & they haven't.Will try againAsk Ed Miliband if The Only Way is Austerity. Doesn't really answer says govt promised things would get better & they haven't.Will try again
— lucy manning (@lucymanning) May 8, 2012— lucy manning (@lucymanning) May 8, 2012
10.50am: If being leader of the opposition doesn't work out for Ed Miliband, there's a great career ahead of him as a daytime TV presenter. He handles these Q&A sessions very well (as many others, including my colleague Nicholas Watt, have pointed out) and he engages with the people asking questions, using their names, asking them questions about their own views and experiences and actually listening to what they have to say. It sounds easy, but there are surprisingly few politicians who can do this well.10.50am: If being leader of the opposition doesn't work out for Ed Miliband, there's a great career ahead of him as a daytime TV presenter. He handles these Q&A sessions very well (as many others, including my colleague Nicholas Watt, have pointed out) and he engages with the people asking questions, using their names, asking them questions about their own views and experiences and actually listening to what they have to say. It sounds easy, but there are surprisingly few politicians who can do this well.
As for the politics, Miliband did not have anything sensationally original to say. But there are two messages worth highlighting.As for the politics, Miliband did not have anything sensationally original to say. But there are two messages worth highlighting.
• Miliband said that he wanted to persuade those people who did not vote in the local elections that politics could make a difference. In Harlow 71% of people did not participate in the elections, he said.• Miliband said that he wanted to persuade those people who did not vote in the local elections that politics could make a difference. In Harlow 71% of people did not participate in the elections, he said.
I want to reach out and understand why you don't trust any politicians, why you don't believe any of us can answer the questions that you are facing in your life. I think there is a crisis of politics in this country. There is a crisis of people thinking 'I'm not going to engage with politics, you're all the same, you all break your promises'.I want to reach out and understand why you don't trust any politicians, why you don't believe any of us can answer the questions that you are facing in your life. I think there is a crisis of politics in this country. There is a crisis of people thinking 'I'm not going to engage with politics, you're all the same, you all break your promises'.
Miliband was acknowledging a point that has been made by many others. At the weekend John Bercow said that voters felt the same parties were all the same and that they did not make any difference. George Galloway has expressed this even more vividly, describing the three main parties as three cheeks of the same buttock.Miliband was acknowledging a point that has been made by many others. At the weekend John Bercow said that voters felt the same parties were all the same and that they did not make any difference. George Galloway has expressed this even more vividly, describing the three main parties as three cheeks of the same buttock.
• Miliband challenged David Cameron to drop his plans to cut the 50p top rate of tax. In an article in the Daily Telegraph yesterday, Cameron said that he had heard the message voters were sending at the elections last week. "I get it," Cameron said. Miliband picked up on this.• Miliband challenged David Cameron to drop his plans to cut the 50p top rate of tax. In an article in the Daily Telegraph yesterday, Cameron said that he had heard the message voters were sending at the elections last week. "I get it," Cameron said. Miliband picked up on this.

David Cameron and Nick Clegg have a choice. The legislation to bring in the millionaires' tax cut and the raid on pensioners is still awaiting final approval. I have a simple test for them: if they want to prove they 'get it' they should drop these measures when they unveil the Queen's Speech tomorrow and start building an economy which works for working people.
David Cameron and Nick Clegg have a choice. The legislation to bring in the millionaires' tax cut and the raid on pensioners is still awaiting final approval. I have a simple test for them: if they want to prove they 'get it' they should drop these measures when they unveil the Queen's Speech tomorrow and start building an economy which works for working people.
10.35am: I was following on the BBC, which has just given up covering the Q&A live. (Sky are now showing Hillary Clinton.) I'll post a summary shortly.10.35am: I was following on the BBC, which has just given up covering the Q&A live. (Sky are now showing Hillary Clinton.) I'll post a summary shortly.
10.31am: More questions.10.31am: More questions.
Q: What would you do about SureStart? [This comes from a SureStart employee who has been made redundant. Miliband asks her to explain what happened.]Q: What would you do about SureStart? [This comes from a SureStart employee who has been made redundant. Miliband asks her to explain what happened.]
Miliband says Labour thinks SureStart budgets should be ringfenced, because otherwise councils will treat SureStart as a low priority. He says he does not know about the situation in Essex.

Q: What would you do to help small businesses?		Miliband says Labour thinks SureStart budgets should be ringfenced, because otherwise councils will treat SureStart as a low priority. He says he does not know about the situation in Essex.

Q: What would you do to help small businesses?
Miliband says local authorities and central government spend a lot of money buying services. In other countries, they use this to support local businesses. He would like the same thing to happen here?Miliband says local authorities and central government spend a lot of money buying services. In other countries, they use this to support local businesses. He would like the same thing to happen here?
Q: What would you do about people who go off sick when they are not sick in the NHS? [This comes from an NHS pathologist.]Q: What would you do about people who go off sick when they are not sick in the NHS? [This comes from an NHS pathologist.]
Miliband says that the NHS should be "totally intolerant" of people skiving off. This should not be happening, he says. "We should find ways in which we can crack down on this," he says.Miliband says that the NHS should be "totally intolerant" of people skiving off. This should not be happening, he says. "We should find ways in which we can crack down on this," he says.
10.29am: Here's Ed Miliband doing his Q&A.10.29am: Here's Ed Miliband doing his Q&A.
(Not a flattering picture, I'm afraid, but all I've got at the moment.)(Not a flattering picture, I'm afraid, but all I've got at the moment.)
10.17am: More questions.10.17am: More questions.
Q: What will you do to reintegrate education?Q: What will you do to reintegrate education?
Miliband says Michael Gove is the most centralises secretary of state ever. He had an example in his constituency. If people have a problem with an academy, they have to take it up with central government.Miliband says Michael Gove is the most centralises secretary of state ever. He had an example in his constituency. If people have a problem with an academy, they have to take it up with central government.
He believes Gove stands for "education for the few not the many". Free schools involve "robbing Peter to pay Paul". The English baccalaureate will discriminate against important subjects. The creative industries are hugely important. Yet art and design does not count as an English baccalaureate subject.He believes Gove stands for "education for the few not the many". Free schools involve "robbing Peter to pay Paul". The English baccalaureate will discriminate against important subjects. The creative industries are hugely important. Yet art and design does not count as an English baccalaureate subject.
He also says he would like to give more power to schools.He also says he would like to give more power to schools.
Q: What will you do about the NHS? Staff feel very devalued.Q: What will you do about the NHS? Staff feel very devalued.
Miliband says he would repeal the parts of the health bill introducing free market competition.Miliband says he would repeal the parts of the health bill introducing free market competition.
Under Labour things would have been tough. But the government has made it worse by carrying out a reorganisation at the same time.Under Labour things would have been tough. But the government has made it worse by carrying out a reorganisation at the same time.
Labour did too many reorganisations when it was in government, he says.Labour did too many reorganisations when it was in government, he says.
The government's plans will fragment the NHS. He is making a speech to the Royal College of Nursing next week.The government's plans will fragment the NHS. He is making a speech to the Royal College of Nursing next week.
He ends by thanking the questioner, a nurse. People do not thank nurses enough, he says. He invites the audience to give a round of applause.He ends by thanking the questioner, a nurse. People do not thank nurses enough, he says. He invites the audience to give a round of applause.
Q: Do you have any specific job creation schemes? And Why is Remploy being dismantle?Q: Do you have any specific job creation schemes? And Why is Remploy being dismantle?
Miliband says he does have specific job creation schemes. Wasting the lives of young people is ridiculous, he says. Labour would tax bankers' bonuses and use that money to provide jobs for young people. As prime minister, he would be telling every private sector in the organisation from day one to mobilise behind that plan. Young people are not shirkers, he says.Miliband says he does have specific job creation schemes. Wasting the lives of young people is ridiculous, he says. Labour would tax bankers' bonuses and use that money to provide jobs for young people. As prime minister, he would be telling every private sector in the organisation from day one to mobilise behind that plan. Young people are not shirkers, he says.
On Remploy, he says he does not like the changes the government is making. It did not run a proper consultation. People are being made redundant when it will be tough for them to find work.On Remploy, he says he does not like the changes the government is making. It did not run a proper consultation. People are being made redundant when it will be tough for them to find work.
10.17am: Miliband is good at these Q&As. When people ask a question, he makes a point of using their names and asking questions about their own experiences.10.17am: Miliband is good at these Q&As. When people ask a question, he makes a point of using their names and asking questions about their own experiences.
10.11am: Miliband is taking questions now.10.11am: Miliband is taking questions now.
Q: Is Labour in favour of a new investment bank?Q: Is Labour in favour of a new investment bank?
Miliband says the government has spent too much time standing up for the banks and not enough standing up for small businesses.Miliband says the government has spent too much time standing up for the banks and not enough standing up for small businesses.
There should be a new investment bank, part private and part public, he says. This works in Germany and it works in the US.There should be a new investment bank, part private and part public, he says. This works in Germany and it works in the US.
Banks have a duty to realise they have to serve the economy.

Q: What would you do about housing? [This comes from someone who says his daughter has been on a council waiting list for 20 years.]		Banks have a duty to realise they have to serve the economy.

Q: What would you do about housing? [This comes from someone who says his daughter has been on a council waiting list for 20 years.]
Miliband says he is sorry to hear about the questioner's daughter's experience. He says it "hurts" if she has always worked and always done the right thing.Miliband says he is sorry to hear about the questioner's daughter's experience. He says it "hurts" if she has always worked and always done the right thing.
The previous Conservative council in Harlow said it was going to freeze council house building. He says the new Labour council will look at whether it can do anything more.The previous Conservative council in Harlow said it was going to freeze council house building. He says the new Labour council will look at whether it can do anything more.
The last Labour government did not do enough on housing, he says. With housing, every party of the jigsaw needs to join up: private housing, social housing and the planning system.The last Labour government did not do enough on housing, he says. With housing, every party of the jigsaw needs to join up: private housing, social housing and the planning system.
The government has spent two years messing up the planning system. And it has taken away targets for local authority house building.The government has spent two years messing up the planning system. And it has taken away targets for local authority house building.
10.06am: Ed Miliband is speaking now.10.06am: Ed Miliband is speaking now.
He says he wants to understand why so many people did not vote in the local elections. In Harlow, only 28.4% of people vote. He passionately believes politics can make a difference to their lives, he says.He says he wants to understand why so many people did not vote in the local elections. In Harlow, only 28.4% of people vote. He passionately believes politics can make a difference to their lives, he says.
He says Labour measures would make a difference. A Labour Queen's Speech would include measures to get people back into work.He says Labour measures would make a difference. A Labour Queen's Speech would include measures to get people back into work.
10.03am: 10.03am: Ed Miliband is about to start his Q&A in Essex.10.03am: 10.03am: Ed Miliband is about to start his Q&A in Essex.
The Financial Times journalist Kiran Stacey is in the audience. He has posted this on Twitter.The Financial Times journalist Kiran Stacey is in the audience. He has posted this on Twitter.
In harlow for towie part one. Miliband's entry music is downbeat country and blues. Theme is 'tough times' if you hadn't guessed.In harlow for towie part one. Miliband's entry music is downbeat country and blues. Theme is 'tough times' if you hadn't guessed.
— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012— kiranstacey (@kiranstacey) May 8, 2012
9.54am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.9.54am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.

• Roland Watson in the Times (paywall) says some senior Liberal Democrats think their party will have to leave the coalition before the election to avoid being wiped out.		As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.

• Roland Watson in the Times (paywall) says some senior Liberal Democrats think their party will have to leave the coalition before the election to avoid being wiped out.
Senior Liberal Democrats believe that the party may have to withdraw from government early to avoid being wiped out at the next general election, The Times has learnt.Senior Liberal Democrats believe that the party may have to withdraw from government early to avoid being wiped out at the next general election, The Times has learnt.
They think the party will need to reassert its independence from its Conservative governing partners well before polling day in May 2015. The concerns emerged during an investigation by The Times into relations within the coalition before its second anniversary this week. Other findings include:They think the party will need to reassert its independence from its Conservative governing partners well before polling day in May 2015. The concerns emerged during an investigation by The Times into relations within the coalition before its second anniversary this week. Other findings include:
• David Cameron refused a request from Baroness Warsi, the Tory co-chairman, to attack Nick Clegg during this month's local election campaign;• David Cameron refused a request from Baroness Warsi, the Tory co-chairman, to attack Nick Clegg during this month's local election campaign;
• George Osborne blamed Mr Clegg for the leaking of Budget secrets during an angry telephone confrontation;• George Osborne blamed Mr Clegg for the leaking of Budget secrets during an angry telephone confrontation;
• Mr Clegg feared a revolt by Liberal Democrat MPs over the cut in the 50p top rate of tax, but over-ruled his closest advisers to agree it.• Mr Clegg feared a revolt by Liberal Democrat MPs over the cut in the 50p top rate of tax, but over-ruled his closest advisers to agree it.
• Vince Cable in the Daily Telegraph says other countries in the EU are supporting Britain's attempt to curb regulation.• Vince Cable in the Daily Telegraph says other countries in the EU are supporting Britain's attempt to curb regulation.
I recently attended a remarkable meeting of European economic ministers in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. We represented 15 of the 27 European Union countries: the Like Minded Group, committed to rolling back excessive regulation emanating from Brussels and to expanding the Single Market.I recently attended a remarkable meeting of European economic ministers in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. We represented 15 of the 27 European Union countries: the Like Minded Group, committed to rolling back excessive regulation emanating from Brussels and to expanding the Single Market.
There were governments of centre Right and centre Left, some strongly in favour of close European integration, like the Netherlands and Germany, others more sceptical, like Britain or Denmark. Yet there was a common purpose: to close down the red tape factories of Brussels. One of the biggest and most wasteful is the Working Time Directive (WTD), which sets a 48-hour limit to the working week.There were governments of centre Right and centre Left, some strongly in favour of close European integration, like the Netherlands and Germany, others more sceptical, like Britain or Denmark. Yet there was a common purpose: to close down the red tape factories of Brussels. One of the biggest and most wasteful is the Working Time Directive (WTD), which sets a 48-hour limit to the working week.
Like a lot of European social legislation this directive, first put forward 20 years ago, was well-intentioned. It was introduced to protect the health and safety of workers. For example, when European markets first opened up there was a legitimate need to prevent long-distance lorry drivers falling asleep at the wheel. It is also easy to forget that a few decades ago it was relatively rare for British workers to have decent holiday time and rest breaks.Like a lot of European social legislation this directive, first put forward 20 years ago, was well-intentioned. It was introduced to protect the health and safety of workers. For example, when European markets first opened up there was a legitimate need to prevent long-distance lorry drivers falling asleep at the wheel. It is also easy to forget that a few decades ago it was relatively rare for British workers to have decent holiday time and rest breaks.
But a heavy-handed, one-size–fits-all approach has been adopted, with unintended perverse outcomes. The directive incorporates the idea that is most clearly expressed in the French 35-hour week: that work should be compulsorily restricted and shared out, whether or not it suits the needs of individual workers or firms. Not only is this dreadful economics, it is also deeply illiberal.But a heavy-handed, one-size–fits-all approach has been adopted, with unintended perverse outcomes. The directive incorporates the idea that is most clearly expressed in the French 35-hour week: that work should be compulsorily restricted and shared out, whether or not it suits the needs of individual workers or firms. Not only is this dreadful economics, it is also deeply illiberal.
• Daniel Martin in the Daily Mail says 78 charities have signed a letter to David Cameron saying he should make reform of social care his personal mission.

• Iain McNicol, Labour's general secretary, tells the Independent in an interview that the idea that Labour relies entirely on large union donations is a myth. Here's what he said:		• Daniel Martin in the Daily Mail says 78 charities have signed a letter to David Cameron saying he should make reform of social care his personal mission.

• Iain McNicol, Labour's general secretary, tells the Independent in an interview that the idea that Labour relies entirely on large union donations is a myth. Here's what he said:
We bring in as much money from our members and supporters as we bring in from trade union affiliation fees. Nearly £8m comes from our supporters in the form of their membership fees and low level donations. If we look across at the model Obama built in America, there is a huge opportunity to build on those £5, £10 and £20 donations. That's where I'll be focusing a lot of our resources.We bring in as much money from our members and supporters as we bring in from trade union affiliation fees. Nearly £8m comes from our supporters in the form of their membership fees and low level donations. If we look across at the model Obama built in America, there is a huge opportunity to build on those £5, £10 and £20 donations. That's where I'll be focusing a lot of our resources.
• Rachel Sylvester in the Times (paywall) says the next spending review will create serious problems for the coaltion.• Rachel Sylvester in the Times (paywall) says the next spending review will create serious problems for the coaltion.

The political significance of a new spending round — conducted by a Lib Dem Chief Secretary to the Treasury on behalf of a Tory Chancellor — is also becoming clearer by the day. The spending review period goes beyond the next election, which raises big questions. Should the Government come up with a shared coalition cuts programme or can the two parties go their separate ways on austerity? Will the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats be tied into a joint economic manifesto when the country next goes to the polls? And if they are, does that mean the two sides will effectively be standing as coalition candidates? Would it give enough certainty to the markets if they signed up to headline totals, then came up with different ways of implementing the savings? Or would this undermine the credibility of the Government ahead of polling day?
The political significance of a new spending round — conducted by a Lib Dem Chief Secretary to the Treasury on behalf of a Tory Chancellor — is also becoming clearer by the day. The spending review period goes beyond the next election, which raises big questions. Should the Government come up with a shared coalition cuts programme or can the two parties go their separate ways on austerity? Will the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats be tied into a joint economic manifesto when the country next goes to the polls? And if they are, does that mean the two sides will effectively be standing as coalition candidates? Would it give enough certainty to the markets if they signed up to headline totals, then came up with different ways of implementing the savings? Or would this undermine the credibility of the Government ahead of polling day?
• David Milband in the Times (paywall) says François Hollande's election will be good for Europe.• David Milband in the Times (paywall) says François Hollande's election will be good for Europe.
Enter Mr Hollande. He was selected as presidential candidate by the French Socialist Party in a welcome outbreak of electoral realism. He comes from the pragmatic, not to say technocratic, centre of the party. Mr Hollande knows an economic cul-de-sac when he sees one. He lived through the 1981 Mitterrand experiment and has no interest in a retreat to the land of economic make believe. But you don't need to live in the past to seek an alternative to economic masochism.Enter Mr Hollande. He was selected as presidential candidate by the French Socialist Party in a welcome outbreak of electoral realism. He comes from the pragmatic, not to say technocratic, centre of the party. Mr Hollande knows an economic cul-de-sac when he sees one. He lived through the 1981 Mitterrand experiment and has no interest in a retreat to the land of economic make believe. But you don't need to live in the past to seek an alternative to economic masochism.
The danger is not that Mr Hollande is too "dangerous". The truth is that the current policy mix is unsustainable. A new framework will come in the end. The only question is whether it is done through design or collapse. The challenge for Mr Hollande is to confront the flawed policy consensus of austerity — but also boldly to embrace reform.The danger is not that Mr Hollande is too "dangerous". The truth is that the current policy mix is unsustainable. A new framework will come in the end. The only question is whether it is done through design or collapse. The challenge for Mr Hollande is to confront the flawed policy consensus of austerity — but also boldly to embrace reform.
He has talked of renegotiating the fiscal pact, balancing it with a growth pact and rebalancing the European economic equation. In this he is surely correct. The IMF believes this. The Obama administration is praying for it. The balance between short and medium-term deficit reduction and the respective roles of creditor and debtor countries have been unmentionable around the European Council table for too long.He has talked of renegotiating the fiscal pact, balancing it with a growth pact and rebalancing the European economic equation. In this he is surely correct. The IMF believes this. The Obama administration is praying for it. The balance between short and medium-term deficit reduction and the respective roles of creditor and debtor countries have been unmentionable around the European Council table for too long.
• Ephraim Hardcastle, the Daily Mail diarist, says that Jack Straw is planning to stand down as the next election and that his son Will is interested in taking his Blackburn seat.• Ephraim Hardcastle, the Daily Mail diarist, says that Jack Straw is planning to stand down as the next election and that his son Will is interested in taking his Blackburn seat.
9.33am: David Laws (pictured), the Lib Dem former chief secretary to the Treasury, was on the Today programme this morning. He said the coalition was always going to make some in the Conservative party and the Liberal Democrat party "uncomfortable" and that it was healthy for them to be allowed to say so. I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.9.33am: David Laws (pictured), the Lib Dem former chief secretary to the Treasury, was on the Today programme this morning. He said the coalition was always going to make some in the Conservative party and the Liberal Democrat party "uncomfortable" and that it was healthy for them to be allowed to say so. I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.
You're always going to get in a coalition, the people on the extreme edges of both parties - the right of the Conservative party and the left of the Liberal Democrats - feeling uncomfortable about the process of coalition, the compromise that involves. Obviously many of those people will want to make sure that the thing they believe in are still being promoted; some of the policies that are not necessarily going to be adopted in a coalition situation where you're looking for the centre ground.You're always going to get in a coalition, the people on the extreme edges of both parties - the right of the Conservative party and the left of the Liberal Democrats - feeling uncomfortable about the process of coalition, the compromise that involves. Obviously many of those people will want to make sure that the thing they believe in are still being promoted; some of the policies that are not necessarily going to be adopted in a coalition situation where you're looking for the centre ground.
But I think that it is possible to do what we've been seeking to do over the last couple of years, which is to have a very coherent and united position, particularly on the most important, the central challenges that we face as a country - in other words the economy, education reform, welfare reform - while demonstrating both parties have their own identities and their own priorities. And I think, actually, that process of letting each party breathe a bit is important to giving coalitions the ability to last, because if you have sort of iron discipline, in which parts of parties can't express themselves at all, that's not actually a stabilising force.But I think that it is possible to do what we've been seeking to do over the last couple of years, which is to have a very coherent and united position, particularly on the most important, the central challenges that we face as a country - in other words the economy, education reform, welfare reform - while demonstrating both parties have their own identities and their own priorities. And I think, actually, that process of letting each party breathe a bit is important to giving coalitions the ability to last, because if you have sort of iron discipline, in which parts of parties can't express themselves at all, that's not actually a stabilising force.
9.04am: What has Essex done to deserve David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband? All three leaders are on the train today to the spiritual home of the strivers, the grafters, the hard-working families, or whatever else you choose to call the aspirational floating voters who are said to hold the key to electoral success. The Cameron/Clegg event is being billed as a renewal of the coalition wedding vows, a Rose Garden mark 2. As my colleague Juliette Jowit reports, they will say that "there can be no going back" on the unpopular task of slashing government spending and debt.9.04am: What has Essex done to deserve David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband? All three leaders are on the train today to the spiritual home of the strivers, the grafters, the hard-working families, or whatever else you choose to call the aspirational floating voters who are said to hold the key to electoral success. The Cameron/Clegg event is being billed as a renewal of the coalition wedding vows, a Rose Garden mark 2. As my colleague Juliette Jowit reports, they will say that "there can be no going back" on the unpopular task of slashing government spending and debt.
In a joint event marking two years of the coalition, the Conservative leader, David Cameron, will say that the agreement to make the economy the central plank of the government's programme continued to be the "number one priority".In a joint event marking two years of the coalition, the Conservative leader, David Cameron, will say that the agreement to make the economy the central plank of the government's programme continued to be the "number one priority".
"That was and remains our guiding task, and in these perilous times it's more important than ever for Britain that we stick to it," he will say. "There can be no going back on our carefully judged strategy for restoring the public finances.""That was and remains our guiding task, and in these perilous times it's more important than ever for Britain that we stick to it," he will say. "There can be no going back on our carefully judged strategy for restoring the public finances."
Both leaders will make their case for continuing with harsh spending cuts by arguing that continued borrowing would have to be repaid by "our children".Both leaders will make their case for continuing with harsh spending cuts by arguing that continued borrowing would have to be repaid by "our children".
The Lib Dem leader and deputy PM, Nick Clegg, will say: "Ducking the tough choices would only prolong the pain, condemning the next generation to decades of higher interest rates, poorer public services and fewer jobs."The Lib Dem leader and deputy PM, Nick Clegg, will say: "Ducking the tough choices would only prolong the pain, condemning the next generation to decades of higher interest rates, poorer public services and fewer jobs."
Cameron and Clegg will be up this afternoon. Beforehand, Miliband will be holding his own Q&A with members of the public. He will be arguing that Labour offers a credible alternative. Just in case we missed the point, a Labour spin doctor emailed journalists yesterday suggesting we could write compare and contrast pieces with the headline: "The only way is Essex - but which way?"Cameron and Clegg will be up this afternoon. Beforehand, Miliband will be holding his own Q&A with members of the public. He will be arguing that Labour offers a credible alternative. Just in case we missed the point, a Labour spin doctor emailed journalists yesterday suggesting we could write compare and contrast pieces with the headline: "The only way is Essex - but which way?"
(Bit corny, isn't it? Please, chaps, stick to spinning - and leave the headlines to us.)(Bit corny, isn't it? Please, chaps, stick to spinning - and leave the headlines to us.)
Here's the full agenda for the day.

10am: Ed Miliband holds a Q&A in Harlow, where Labour won control of the council in last week's elections.		Here's the full agenda for the day.

10am: Ed Miliband holds a Q&A in Harlow, where Labour won control of the council in last week's elections.
10am: Andy Coulson launches a new appeal against a high court decision that News Group Newspapers (NGN) does not have to pay his potential legal costs over the phone-hacking affair.10am: Andy Coulson launches a new appeal against a high court decision that News Group Newspapers (NGN) does not have to pay his potential legal costs over the phone-hacking affair.
2pm: Glenn Mulcaire begins his supreme court appeal against a ruling saying he cannot against he cannot rely on privilege against self-incrimination in the civil phone-hacking proceedings.2pm: Glenn Mulcaire begins his supreme court appeal against a ruling saying he cannot against he cannot rely on privilege against self-incrimination in the civil phone-hacking proceedings.
3.30pm: David Cameron and Nick Clegg hold a Q&A with workers at a factory in Essex.3.30pm: David Cameron and Nick Clegg hold a Q&A with workers at a factory in Essex.
As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm. But I'll be wrapping up early because I've got a local election article to write this afternoon.As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm. But I'll be wrapping up early because I've got a local election article to write this afternoon.
If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.
And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.