The two top Welsh politicians have a similar message

Both Rhodri Morgan and Peter Hain used their conference speeches to stress the vital importance of unity within the party.

Mr Hain said they had come to a "moment of truth" if the party was to stay in power.

However, he praised Labour's results in the Welsh assembly elections, saying Plaid Cymru were destroyed and the Conservatives "hammered".

But he had a sharp warning for delegates.

""I know there are criticisms of our Government. I know we've made mistakes. I know there is resentment at the grass roots.

"But we should all be more proud of what our Labour Government - your Labour Government has achieved.

This is a moment of truth. The Tories and the right-wing media scent blood Peter Hain

"The present moment is tough - mid-terms always are. There is doubt, mistrust, anxiety about change.

"But if we hold firm to our course of reform and social justice we can achieve the historic goals of our movement.

"This is a moment of truth. The Tories and the right-wing media scent blood.

The Liberals hope to tempt our supporters that a vote for them is a free hit at the Government.

"It is time to get real and I tell you, if we don't it will be the end of our chance to serve the millions for whom Labour in power means hope not despair.

He asked if people who said the party was just like the Tories wanted to try them again, adding: "Because if you are not careful, you will get them again."

Addressing trade union leaders, who are expected to make waves over public service reform, he said: "Labour governments have to govern. Trade unions have to represent.

"We won't always agree but we must never, ever fall apart."

Mr Morgan addressing the Welsh Labour conference

Speaking of the assembly election gains, he commented: "Sweetest of all, we swept aside the Liberal Democrats to govern on our own instead of having to rely on their two-faced and fickle backing.

He added: "The truth is the Liberals are now the 'yellow Tories'. Too cowardly to admit their new agenda.

"As for the Welsh nationalists, their leader was so useless, they've now elected a second one to keep an eye on him."

Mr Morgan reinforced the unity message in his speech, placing it at the heart of Labour's success in gaining outright control of the assembly chamber.

"United parties win elections. Divided parties lose them.

"It's the simplest law of successful politics and all of us need to remember that today and this week, the platform as well as people in the hall," he said.

"Only we can form a partnership with the people of Wales," he added.