Conference 'overwhelmingly' passed Labour's new health policy, which had been pieced together from two years of consultation managed by the party's health policy forum.

The document holds few surprises: it endorses the thrust and detail of Labour's reforms, and commits the party to a series of motherhood-and-apple-pie aims such as 'improving the health of everyone'.

The health policy commission report admits, however, that Labour's decision to end the requirement to transfer ancillary services to the private sector in private finance initiative deals came as a direct result of pressure through the policy process.

The report adds that consultation with party members revealed 'widespread support' for action that Labour has already taken in government, especially NHS Direct, and initiatives to reduce health inequalities.