Hutton: We are facing test of our resolve

Mr Hutton confessed the government was having a difficult time

Thursday, 29, May 2008 12:00

John Hutton, business secretary, has admitted the government is facing a test of its resolve.

Speaking at a meeting of the left-wing Fabian society this morning Mr Hutton said: "These are difficult times for our party and for our government.

"We face now a real test of both our character and resolve."

The comments follow a torrid few weeks for Labour, but are in line with the approach being adopted by various party members since the party's Crewe by-election defeat.

John Denham, universities secretary confessed Labour had to win back southern voters if it was to survive earlier while John Prescott has blamed government spin for Labour's current woes.

Mr Hutton went on to rule out further workplace legislation, in a move likely to irritate unions and satisfy the business sector.

He said minimum standard enforcement was better placed to deal with exploitation than new laws.