By Mark Davies BBC News Online political staff in Bournemouth

If it was a shout of disapproval, it didn't last long. And if Mr Clarke received only a short, non-standing ovation at the end, it was hardly what you'd call a rough ride.

The hot issue, of course, is top up fees for university students. Many in the party are unhappy about the plans, warning they may deprive some of the chance of a higher education.

Charles Clarke insisted top-up fees were fairest way

Mr Clarke addressed the concerns, insisting that the proposals were the fairest way to proceed amid "difficult choices".

But there were voices of dissent in the debate leading up to Mr Clarke's speech.

Cheers

Karim Palant, chair of Labour Students, said he didn't believe top up fees were the answer to the problems of funding higher education.

He insisted that he believed ministers were listening to his concerns.

But he said: "Failing to get more kids from all backgrounds into university is not right."

The speech won cheers from delegates and a nod from Mr Clarke.