Harriet Harman closed the Labour conference in Manchester

Harman backs Brown to end Labour conference

Harman backs Brown to end Labour conference

Deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman says Gordon Brown has the “strength and resilience” to lead Britain through “difficult times”.

Her tribute came as she gave the closing speech to the party’s autumn conference in Manchester after a week dominated by leadership speculation.

“He has shown that he is the right person to lead the party and the right person to lead the country,” she told party delegates.

“His unrivalled experience as the most successful chancellor of recent times was built on the foundation of his values.

“His commitment to fairness and to equality will ensure that when we have come through these difficult times everyone will have a stake in our future prosperity.”

Her speech brought to a close the party’s conference. The Conservatives meet in Birmingham on Saturday.