This morning I worked on the finishing touches of my speech which will be on Wednesday morning.

I listened to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Alastair Darling, as he gave his speech to conference which was well-recieved in the hall.

At lunchtime, I participated in a fringe event which focused on oil climate change and how these issues impact on transport.

In the afternoon, I took part in conference sessions with delegates on transport and then I was part of the panel at an event organised by the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority entitled "Revolutionising Public Transport".

There was a healthy debate regarding public transport for the region which touched upon many aspects of how the local economy is growing and how both national and local government can ensure that public transport reflects the needs of commuters, particularly with increased capacity on trains, trams and buses.

This evening, I shall attend an event held by "Towards London 2012" which focuses on the work they are undertaking to prepare for the London Olympics.

Work is due to begin on the stadium in October and Lostock firm Watson Steel Structures Ltd is involved in this huge project. I will also be attending various receptions and meeting colleagues and journalists.