David Miliband is the clear preference of the public as Labour leader, a poll claimed today.
The YouGov survey found he was picked by 42 per cent of those who had a preference. Younger brother Ed came next on 19, with Diane Abbot third on seven.
Fourteen per cent of the public said they would be more likely to vote Labour if he was leader, compared with seven per cent if chief rival Ed Miliband won the crown.
The survey, by a reputable company, was paid for by the shadow foreign secretary's campaign in a final attempt to convince Labour members he should be their choice.
Ed Balls today proposed a £250 million plan to create 200,000 jobs and work placements in an attempt to show he is dealing with real world issues. "This policy goes to the heart of the alternative I am setting out on the economy," he said.
Ed Miliband, meanwhile, won a boost from Left-wing Tribune magazine.
Ballot papers are arriving at the homes of Labour activists, trade unionists and members of affiliated societies. Some people could vote eight or even 10 times if they are members of many linked groups. The winner will be announced on the eve of the party conference this month.
Gordon Brown has dismissed Tony Blair's criticism of him in his memoirs, it emerged today. "He shrugged his shoulders and said, in life you should think about the future," said Mr Balls.
