PLYMOUTH is a city of great symbolism for any future Labour leader, in a part of the country where we were all but wiped out at the general election.

We failed to be proud enough of our record, humble enough about our mistakes and clear enough in our offer for the future.

Against a coalition Government that is cutting without compassion, Labour must stand up for those that will be hit hardest by this ideologically-driven economic vandalism.

It will be the vulnerable and those in need that will be most affected.

Plymouth City Council recently confirmed that £414,000 to improve playgrounds could be affected by the coalition's cuts.

Children should not be paying the price for a global economic recession.

That is why I would have ended the charitable status of public schools, doubled the bank levy and introduced a mansion tax on £2 million homes.

In short, I would have placed the burden on those with the broadest shoulders, not the members of society who need the most protection.

The local pride for the military and the Royal Navy in particular struck me last month when I visited on the campaign trail.

I have been to Afghanistan six times. It has been a privilege to meet the men and women who serve our country: they do so with great bravery, professionalism and intelligence.

We owe it to them to make sure we have a vision of the end-game, that we are consistent, and that we provide the leadership necessary to see this through.

I understand what it takes to lead our troops and that is why Labour needs a credible alternative Prime Minister.

I would reduce the deficit by getting Britain growing and working, not by cutting the roots of Plymouth's economy.

The Tory cuts will hurt those least able to afford them and risk a long period of slow growth if not a second recession.

If elected leader of the Labour Party I will focus on returning Britain to full employment and achieving a fair deal for those who work the hardest.

I believe in a Britain of opportunity. That means world-class education and the guarantee of excellent health care for all.

I will recruit the best teachers to the toughest schools, focusing pupils on learning rather than just on exams, and expanding higher education and apprenticeships.

I will prioritise public health, and target all health inequalities, not the needless and destructive reorganisation of the NHS put forward by the coalition Government.

Labour's devolution in Scotland, Wales and London was excellent, but our work is not finished. I would give more power to communities over their public services and local government greater power to lead their communities.