Commenting on Gordon's speech

Well, was it that bad?

I was interviewed this morning on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire to give my views on the speech made by Gordon Brown to the Labour Party conference. Here are my thoughts:

The introduction by Sarah (as last year) was inspired. She's very eloquent and introduced the man as well as the politician.

Then to Gordon's start - yes, rousing is the word I'd use. A standing ovation after 2 minutes 30 seconds (ok a "popcorn" style, but standing nonetheless which is more than Mandleson got) and another towards the end of his speech. He showed a glimmer of humour in acknowledging Mandleson with a very cleverly timed pause about the special relationship, introduced by a link to his recent visit to the US, then a switch in thinking to bring in Mandy (well done to his speech writer).

Then we saw more of the usual serious Mr Brown with some applause surfing during his list of Labour's achievements.

His speech gave the party faithful at the conference what they were looking for. A man in control, someone they could respect, be inspired by and a list of policies to be implemented. He didn't give the voter what they are looking for ... for me one big question wasn't address "How will you pay for it all?".

Overall, light on some content. Well delivered, with good use of pauses, vocal variety and as for the usual frequent facial twitch - it was there a few times but not many compared to it's normal frequency, which was refreshing.

Not that bad... but still some way to go on content.