David Miliband launches leadership bid

David Miliband launched his bid to lead the Labour Party today and called his brother and rival for the post "a huge talent".

Speaking at the Customs House in his constituency of South Shields, South Tyneside, Mr Miliband spoke fondly of his sibling Ed.

The 44-year-old former Foreign Secretary said he was "very proud" of his younger brother.

Mr Miliband said Labour must "reform, repair and reconnect in Opposition" and that required new leadership.

Yet he praised the two leaders he hoped to follow, saying: "Tony Blair over ten remarkable years and Gordon Brown, with historic courage, ability, insight, in three very difficult years have made Britain better."

But he stated that the era of Blairite and Brownite was now over, adding: "New Labour did fantastic things for the country, never let anyone take that away, but what counts is Next Labour."

In a 25 minute speech, which ended with a standing ovation from the audience and a hug from wife Louise, he stated he would run a clean campaign, without negative briefings against his rival candidates.