41.   The Labour leader, John Smith, described the Budget speech as a ruthless betrayal of election pledges.

42.   The Labour leader, John Smith, sought an assurance that there would be full compensation.

43.   He was pressed on the issue on Tuesday by the Labour leader, John Smith.

44.   The labour leader opened up an Autumn offensive against the extension of V A T.

45.   At a rally they heard the Labour leader John Smith repeat his criticism of the government having a fatal addiction to V A T.

46.   Several Conservative M Ps have stepped up the pressure on senior ministers to reverse the plans.

47.   Mr Major angrily accused Labour leader John Smith of reneging on his pro-European principles and putting party political interests before the needs of the country.

48.   The Labour leader told her that no matter what changes she had in mind, nothing would make the poll tax fair.

49.   But the Labour leader in the Upper House, Lord Cledwyn, said Mrs Thatcher had been forced into the decision against her wishes.

50.   Labour leaders say they would place the issue high on the agenda if they win the next election as some observers predict.