Prime Minister Gordon Brown set out his vision for Britain today in his first speech to the Labour Party conference.
In a keynote address the former chancellor highlighted the challenges of his first three months in office, including failed terror attacks, floods and foot and mouth outbreaks.
Mr Brown also praised his predecessor Tony Blair, whose controversial foreign policy eroded support for his government.
Since succeeding Mr Blair as prime minister in June, Mr Brown has led a revival of Labour's fortunes, prompting reports that he could call a general election for as early as 25 October.
Mr Brown does not have to call a general election until 2010, but many insiders believe he will do so earlier to try to secure his own mandate from the British people and capitalise on the weakness of the main opposition Conservatives.
Mr Brown received a hero's welcome when he stepped up to the podium in the seaside resort of Bournemouth, southern England, at the largest political convention in Europe.
The hour-long Bournemouth speech was heavy on domestic policy, including notably pledges on health, crime, drugs, education and housing policy.
On foreign policy, Mr Brown made no announcements on the withdrawal of British troops from Iraq, simply setting out the government's priorities for its forces there and any decision on their future.
In one topical reference he said that those facing persecution in Burma and Zimbabwe could not be allowed to suffer forever.
Mr Brown drew a brief standing ovation when he paid tribute to Mr Blair, praising his involvement in the Middle East peace process.
