On message

New Labour was often teased for forcing its MPs to speak from the same hymn sheet.

Some things have changed under Gordon Brown's "government of all the talents" but Labour backbenchers appear to have stuck to the habit.

Here's Betty Williams MP (left with International Development Secretary Douglas Alexander) on Fairtrade Fortnight:

“Fairtrade helps support seven million people in the developing world.

"Our shopping habits can make a real difference to the world’s poorest people. By buying food and presents from developing countries we will help grow their economies and reduce poverty.

And here's Colin Burgon, Labour MP for Elmet, on the same subject: "Fairtrade helps support seven million people in the developing world.

"Our shopping habits can make a real difference to the world’s poorest people. By buying food and presents from developing countries we will help grow their economies and reduce poverty."

Mrs Williams added: “Already the UK’s demand for African fruit and vegetables benefits a million farmers and their families. By consumers and retailers acting together to promote and buy goods from developing countries we can make a real difference to the lives of some of the world’s poorest people.”

Mr Burgon added: "Already the UK’s demand for African fruit and vegetables benefits a million farmers and their families. By consumers and retailers acting together to promote and buy goods from developing countries we can make a real difference to the lives of some of the world’s poorest people.”

It's not the first time Betty Williams has fallen victim to the "great minds think alike" syndrome that affects Labour backbenchers but I prefer not to believe the idea that charities just knock out quotes for MPs to publish in their own name.