The Labour Party is seeking to capitalise on any momentum gained by yesterday's Budget.

Tony Blair and Gordon Brown will today unveil an election poster warning that Conservative plans for £35bn of spending cuts would severely damage public services.

Later, Alistair Darling, the transport secretary, and Alan Johnson, the work and pensions secretary, will seek to draw "clear dividing lines" with the Conservatives.

One Labour strategist said: "We're putting Alistair Darling up to talk about Tory cuts because he is someone trusted by both sides.

"There is no doubt that Gordon will appear at future press conferences and be a central figure in our campaign."

However, a Tory source tells the Times: "We've been setting the agenda and we'll go on setting the agenda. This Budget makes no difference."