Labour faces a difficult problem in dealing with all the protesters who are pleading their case outside the conference in Brighton this week.

It has to be seen to be listening to the will of the people, whether it be pensioners complaining their rise was too low or farmers saying they are being forced out of business through rising prices.

But the Government cannot give in to every pressure group, otherwise it will be simply seen to be at the mercy of events.

It also has to be wary of making long-term commitments which will saddle it and its successors with ever-rising commitments.

Ministers are accepting that the 75p a week increase for pensioners this year, although reflecting low inflation, was seen as being too small and action is being taken to rectify that.

But linking pensions to earnings, as the campaigners desire, would be a concession too far.

The Government cannot cave in completely to fuel protesters who brought Britain to its knees a fortnight ago but again it must help those who are suffering the most.

Gordon Brown hit the right notes in a conference speech which gained a standing ovation last night. Tony Blair has to do even better in his leader's speech today by hearing what the country is saying as well as leading it forward.

Clean up time The message from traders and residents of St James's Street in Brighton to Home Office Minister Lord Bassam was clear and uncompromising.

Make sure crime, vandalism and drunkeness is taken off the street or all the investment which has been made in its future will be wasted.

Police have the main part to play in making this street safe and secure with the borough council in a secondary role.

They have to maintain a visible presence and get rid of crimes such as drug dealing.

Lord Bassam made it clear the Home Office will do its bit by fast tracking, if possible, measures to outlaw street drinking.

There are already signs that St James's Street is on the brink of revival after 30 years of decline. For the sake of people who live and work there, fast and tough action is needed.

Most a-moo-sing Farm workers Paul Kench and Brian White were bet by the farmer's daughter they couldn't make a bull out of straw.

They won the bet by producing the model on a farm at Kingston near Worthing to promote the new British Farmers' Standard.

Its caused such a stir drivers are slowing down to look at it and people are even knocking on the door to ask what it is.

If the mock bull caused a minor accident, that really would be the last straw.