THE launch of the new name for the Christian Socialist Movement, Christians on the Left, was accompanied by a call for socialism to "rediscover exiled traditions" ( News, 23 August).

Jon Cruddas MP, a member of the Shadow Cabinet and responsible for writing the Labour Party's manifesto for the next election, told the event at the House of Commons on Tuesday of last week that the party needed to rebuild its historic links to Christianity.

"Changing the name is important for renewal and modernisation," Mr Cruddas said. "The point is not to get a more Christian policy offer, but to link these foundational principles to what Labour is doing."

Stephen Timms MP, chairman of Christians on the Left, said that the organisation existed to shape policy around Christian themes such as compassion, and solidarity. "Our task is also to influence Christians and persuade them to vote Labour, and to think through the political implications of their faith," he said.

The director of the organisation, Andy Flanagan, said: "This is about raising our sights - 7.5 million people go to church once a month, but we have only 1500 members."

Mr Timms said that being called Christians on the Left would bring in more members, especially among the younger generation.