Mr Barber said New Labour was taking core voters for granted

He told the TUC's annual conference to demand a new start after the divisions of Tony Blair's second term as premier.

Huge investment in public services had been tempered by using private sector solutions and Labour's core vote was being taken for granted, he said.

Mr Barber said there was a "comfortable Britain" and a Britain of poor wages and exploitation.

'Proper protection'

"I want them [the government] to work with us to eradicate crude injustices. They should deliver proper protection for agency workers and get the proposed European Directive back on track," he told delegates in Brighton.

"My challenge to the Labour government, our Labour government, is simple. Work with us to make us work better. Never forget: together stronger."

Mr Barber also had words of warning for trade unions.

He said they were probably losing as many members as they were gaining - despite all the recruitment efforts.

"We should do more - much more - to face outwards."

Mr Barber also tried to play down fears about the proposed merger of the so-called big three unions: Amicus, the T&G and GMB.

He said he was not worried about the idea claiming the marriage could create "real benefits" and he wished the unions in question well.