“What we’re really about is pretty simple. LabourList aims to provide a platform for debate for every level of our movement, and for those who disagree with us.

“To encourage this discussion, we’ll have access to and insight from government ministers; we’ll host voices from the fringe and from the traditional media; and we’ll have regular reports from the grassroots that make our movement so powerful.”

There has already been plenty of media reaction from both traditional sources as well as existing bloggers themselves – as perhaps befits a project with such ambitions. Derek Draper, the brains behind the beast, has in fact had time to publish a rapid rebuttal to initial reactions which you can find here. Meanwhile, the Guardian provided this overview yesterday. Finally, from the world of existing bloggers, Forgesian Thinking had the following to say on the matter whilst Will Parbury a couple of weeks back was unable to resist the temptation to take with one hand as he gave with another.

There are clearly plenty of opinions to be had about initiatives such as these. Surely the key to winning the battle of the blogs in the future will be in creating an environment uniquely adapted to the needs of Labour-supporting bloggers which at the same time allows Labour as a movement to beat the Tories. Freedom of expression coupled with a focussed approach to campaigning.

Finally, a quote from Tim Montgomerie, via Derek Draper’s own response this morning:

“… Derek. I wish you luck with the project and hope that we’ll learn from you as you’ve been ‘inspired’ by us – as you are kind enough to acknowledge. My advice to you: Don’t just recycle party lines. LabourList will only work if you represent the breadth of opinion within your party and wider movement.”