Labour and the Conservatives yesterday outlined contrasting visions ahead of tomorrow's Queen's Speech.

David Blunkett put security issues top of his agenda, indicating his support for a raft of new measures to tackle the threat from international terrorism.

In an interview with ITV1's Jonathan Dimbleby programme, the home secretary highlighted a range of anti-terror laws currently under consideration.

These could include trials without juries, making wire tap evidence permissible in courts and taking action against those suspected of "acts preparatory to terrorism".

Blunkett indicated the measures were likely to come in a third term Labour government.

The Guardian reports ministers are also set to announce plans to allow anyone who tests positive for drugs when they are arrested to be prosecuted for possession, even if the only drugs they have are in their bloodstream.

In contrast, the Conservatives were yesterday highlighting their tax cutting plans.

Shadow chancellor Oliver Letwin said the party could move to exempt many first time home buyers from stamp duty.

But he refused to make any firm commitment to the plan, which could cost from £25 million to £2 billion.

Michael Howard said the party would also put policing, cleaner hospitals, school discipline and immigration at the top of their legislative agenda.

Setting out an "alternative" Queen's Speech, the Tory chief said that his party's priorities were in tune with those of the British people.

"After seven years under Tony Blair, crime is out of control, our hospitals are dirty and our immigration system is a shambles," he said.

Meanwhile The Times reports that Michael Howard has recruited a second Australian election strategist to help him defeat Labour.

Polling expert Mark Textor was a key aide to John Howard in his successful re-election bid.