A major new Fabian report sets out a strategy for how to reduce, eliminate and prevent poverty in Britain, even in the recession.

'The Solidarity Society' by Tim Horton and James Gregory argues that New Labour's covert redistribution has failed to win public support for tackling poverty and inequality.

The report argues for the importance of solidarity and strong social relationships in sustaining generous welfare states, and discusses how to reform our welfare institutions to better nurture the solidarity we need – calling for more universal benefits and services, and for a new welfare contract that would reward all who contribute to society.

Labour should talk up its record on redistribution, Alistair Darling tells the forthcoming Fabian Review. He admitted they had shied away from this in the past but indicated measures on fairness would be a big part of the election campaign. “There’s been far more redistribution than people realise,” he told Mary Riddell. 

“In the first two or three years of government, you dare not mention the word, but in any civilized society you have to have the right balance. Yes, we’ve got a long way to go, but we’ve made big changes. People of lower income are getting a far better start than they would otherwise. That’s something Labour should be very proud of. They should make no apologies for it.”