Labour’s announcements in Brighton and Hove last week were good news for residents.

The commitment to build 200,000 new homes will be welcomed by everyone here in the city worried about securing a decent, affordable home for themselves or their family.

Ed Miliband’s pledge to abolish the “bedroom tax” would end the fear and hardship of hundreds of residents.

The proposals to reverse  the tax increase on small businesses will give our local economy and jobs market a much-needed boost and there will be a requirement for companies hiring overseas staff to create apprenticeships.

Meanwhile, workers will benefit from a commitment to the Living Wage that could lift hundreds out of wage poverty locally, while a freeze in energy charges will help those across the city who have been feeling the pressure of spiralling gas and electricity bills in recent years.

Of course none of this can happen if the Tories remain in power. We can do better.

Ed Miliband’s speech spelt out exactly why we need to a elect local Labour MPs and a Labour government alongside a Labour council for Brighton and Hove in 2015.

Warren Morgan, leader of the Labour and Co-operative Group, Brighton and Hove City Council