Ed Balls on the Andrew Marr show

By Alex Smith / @alexsmith1982

Ed Balls has just given a commanding performance on the Andrew Marr show, speaking at length about pubic expenditure and the tough choices the government is making to beat the recession.

With the interview focusing largely on the economy and the language of recession, Marr had seemingly forgotten the Alistair Darling – and not Balls – is still Chancellor.

Nevertheless, it was an impressive display. Balls clearly marked out the distinctions between Labour and the Tories on the economy, citing Labour’s VAT cut to stimulate consumer spending and the rise in the top rate of tax.

But he also said the government will continue to address the “tough choices” on pensions and national insurance increases and said there are signs – such as the strengthening of consumer confidence – that government policy is beginning to show results.

To see Part II of the Balls and Cooper Show, tune into BBC1’s Politics Show at noon.