Brown urges action in Darfur

Gordon Brown has called for further action to end the genocide in Darfur.

The Prime Minister told Labour's conference that resolutions condemning the situation had been passed by the world's developed nations, but they had not been followed up.

Mr Brown said UN resolutions had to be backed up by a force on the ground.

He added: "It's got to be the biggest force that's ever been put into Africa.

"Then we've got to start the political talks. Then we've got to get a ceasefire on the ground."

Mr Brown also argued that if aerial bombings by the military did not stop, further sanctions should be issued.

Meanwhile, speculation is continuing to grow that Mr Brown may call a snap autumn election.

His right-hand man Ed Balls has indicated that the Prime Minister is reflecting on the impact of his first party conference as leader.

Mr Balls, the Schools and Families Secretary, also questioned whether the bigger gamble was to go to the country now - while Labour is riding high in the opinion polls - or wait until next year or beyond.

He said: "I think Gordon Brown will be looking very carefully at the events of this week."

Asked whether Mr Brown was likely to risk an election in October or November, he said: "It's a very interesting question as to where the gamble really lies.

"Clearly, over the last few months as Gordon Brown has established his leadership, as he's dealt with some of the difficult crises which have been thrown at him and at our country, not only did public opinion polls strengthen but underlying support for his leadership has strengthened as well."

But he added: "I think the priority for him is that the country knows that his priority is delivering on their priorities."

Polling takes place on Thursday in nine council by-elections, with Labour seeking to defend seats in seven of them.

The results will provide a key snapshot of voters' opinion as Mr Brown ponders the General Election date.

The contests are in Cheshire, Chester-le-Street, Dover, Kent, Mansfield, Northamptonshire, Portsmouth and Sunderland.

They include polls in wards in the marginal Commons constituencies of Dover, Corby and Portsmouth North.

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