GRAND Slam-winning Welsh rugby coach Mike Ruddock yesterday gave his backing to Welsh Labour's General Election manifesto.

At the launch of the manifesto at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium, Blaina-born Mr Ruddock said he had "always backed Labour" and would be doing so again.

Senior Labour figures, including Welsh First Minister Rhodri Morgan and Welsh Secretary Peter Hain, focused on the economy in their introductions, with Mr Morgan saying he wanted to see a "full employment society".

The manifesto also confirms a pledge to give the Welsh Assembly more powers and to cut NHS waiting times to six months by 2009 - although this is the responsibility of the Assembly government.

There is also a promise of a £200 rebate for council tax-payers over 65, and a pledge that no child will leave school without qualifications by 2010.

Mr Ruddock, a local hero in Gwent since his side's against-the-odds Grand Slam win last month, said: "I haven't had the full stats done yet but Welsh rugby does seem to get more Grand Slams when we have Labour governments."

He added: "I know how important sport is, giving opportunities to develop and bringing people together.

"The Welsh Labour manifesto shows they understand that too."