I WAS in Gateshead last weekend listening to the Prime Minister launch Labour's pledges for the next General Election, whenever that may be.

Building on the simple promises made and delivered in previous elections, the new pledges are more ambitious and wider ranging.

The Prime Minister outlined how Labour would make your families better off, allow children to achieve more with the best possible start in life.

He set out plans to improve treatment in the NHS, build safer communities and to protect our borders from illegal immigration.

I am delighted to say that at the time of writing, we are waiting for the Prime Minister to visit Redditch to talk to parents, teachers and children about their experience and to outline Labour's plans for education.

Last year, our schools saw an impressive jump in standards and as I talk to headteachers across the town, they are excited by the prospect of an even better performance this year.

Every school I have visited recently has had new facilities to help the hard working staff deliver the education our children deserve.

If the Prime Minister gets his way, school modernisation will accelerate, discipline in schools will be reinforced and there will be a guaranteed place in training, sixth form or an apprenticeship.

That's what I want to hear more of this afternoon.

Jacqui Smith MP