The Isle of Man Government will continue to develop its relationship with the Labour Party as a new era begins under the leadership of Ed Miliband MP. Economic Development Minister Allan Bell MHK attended the Labour Conference this week and was in the audience as Mr Miliband outlined his vision for the future. Mr Bell’s presence at the event in Manchester continued the Isle of Man Government’s programme of proactive engagement with the UK’s main political parties. He held a series of informal discussions with key members of the shadow cabinet, ministers, peers and senior policy advisors, including Shadow Chancellor Alistair Darling and Shadow Secretary for Work and Pensions Yvette Cooper. Mr Bell also met members of the British-Manx All Party Parliamentary Group and a number of North West MPs, among them Liverpool and Walton MP Steve Rotherham, to discuss opportunities to strengthen political and business links between the Isle of Man and UK. ‘Labour is clearly moving into a new era under Mr Miliband’s leadership, which means a different dynamic of power and influence. It is vital that we strengthen our dialogue with the party so that the Isle of Man can continue to target its message at the right people in the right places,’ said Mr Bell, who met briefly with the new leader. ‘The Isle of Man was very well received at the Conference and I was able to deliver a strong message; that we are an enterprising, open and responsible country that plays a key role in supporting the British economy. I am confident that the Island will be able to build a positive working relationship with the new Labour leadership.’ Ends