Labour launches bid to build 'election-winning' coalition

Senior Labour politicians will launch a new campaigning organisation in an attempt to unify the party and turn it into a "credible" political force capable of winning the next general election.

Politicians from across the party's political spectrum are launching Labour Together on Wednesday.

The organisation will be chaired by MP Jon Cruddas with shadow energy secretary Lisa Nandy, MP Steve Reed, leader of Manchester Council Sir Richard Leese, Stevenage Council leader Sharon Taylor and Leeds City Council leader Judith Blake serving as vice chairmen.

The group will look to build a "broad, election-winning coalition" within the party and has also pledged to work with both new and long-standing Labour members.

Mr Cruddas said: "Labour Together will be dedicated to fighting for the long-term renewal of Labour as a credible, radical party of government.

"We will work with all parts of the party to develop election-winning ideas that will improve the lives of everyone.

"Labour Together will help build a new politics for a new era. We have to be creative. We want new ideas. We can learn from our best local councils.

"Labour values are British values. The Labour Party has a duty to millions of people across the country. They want and expect us to work together and to unite against a Tory government that is incompetent and dividing the country."

Labour Together is announcing a communities fund to mark its launch.

The Labour Communities Fund will support grassroots projects started by party members and backed by local politicians.

A total fund of up to £40,000 will be handed over to successful projects.