In last year's local elections in Manchester a third of those who voted did so by post. It's not just that people are choosing to get postal votes, but having one makes it much more likely that they'll vote. Lucy Powell chooseelectionlocal share on social
At its most basic the democratic contract is a simple one: the right to vote comes with a responsibility to society, through tax payments and citizenship. Lucy Powell basiccitizenshipcontract Change image and share on social
Although my seat is a contest between Labour and the Lib Dems, it could well make the difference between a Labour and a Tory government at the next election. In terms of international development, this choice is a very clear one. Lucy Powell choiceclearcontest share on social
I just hope that the democratic will of the Zimbabwean people prevails. If it does we must move quickly to help restore stability and prosperity. Lucy Powell democratichopemove Change image and share on social
Over the last 15 years or so, Manchester has undergone huge transformation - from a city in decline and on its knees to one that is growing, vibrant and confident. Lucy Powell cityconfidentdecline Change image and share on social
The impact of the downturn is starting to feel very real. House prices and the housing market have been taking the knock for some time and that's affecting people. Lucy Powell affectdownturnfeel Change image and share on social
These are tough times and under this Tory-led government many people in Manchester are suffering and getting left behind. If elected I will use all my energy, skills, experience and knowledge to stand up for our communities and get things done for the better. Lucy Powell communityelectenergy share on social
It's become unfashionable to celebrate political achievement, and Labour achievement even less so. And it's positively uncouth to be proud of something that this Labour government is doing. So, slam me for saying so, but I'm really proud of the NHS. Lucy Powell achievementcelebrategovernment share on social
For us political activists and candidates, the morning after any election is a mix of emotions - the personal and the immediate, the culmination of your own recent campaigning efforts; and the fortunes of your party and the success or otherwise of what you stand for and believe in. Lucy Powell activistcampaigncandidate share on social
Surely, the best and most effective measure is to get the economy moving and shorten the period of recession or slowdown. That's the rationale for Gordon Brown's 'fiscal stimulus' and it sounds like a good one to me. Lucy Powell browneconomyeffective share on social
