LABOUR politicans in south Essex have welcomed the announcement of the new party leader, Ed Miliband.

He beat his older brother David Miliband by securing 50.65 per cent to 49.35 per cent.

The news was announced at a special leadership conference in Manchester on Saturday.

Baroness Angela Smith of Basildon gave Ed Miliband her full backing.

Mrs Smith, former MP for Basildon, said; “I think he will do a good job. The only issue is that the public don’t know him yet, they know David far more.

“I’ve known Ed for a long time and he’s a really good, decent guy who’s very clever.

“I think he’ll be a good leader who will listen to people, and take it on board. He is very thoughtful.”

Mrs Smith first choice was for Ed Balls, and Ed Miliband was her second preference.

Ed Miliband, 40, only became an MP five years ago and served as Energy and Climate Change Secretary under Gordon Brown.

Mrs Smith added: “He is relatively young but is very experienced. He knows what it’s like for ordinary people. From what I have seen he has got what it takes and has started to show what he’s capable of.”

Her thoughts were echoed by David Norman, Labour group leader at Southend Council.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted we now have a new leader. I think Ed Miliband is an excellent choice. He has commanded a great deal of support in the party locally.

“It’s wonderful to see a new generation of leadership. He is unquestionably going to regenerate the party in a way that is needed since we lost the general election.

“The result was very close but not surprising as they are two exceptionally-talented candidates with great ability.”