I certainly think he is trying to attract the floating voters. In our first past the post system, it is likely what the floating voters do that will decide a party majority, or another coalition. And if we get another coalition in 2015, by the way, perhaps it will be time to look properly at an alternative voting system - one that offers the prospect of greater parliamentary representation? After all, given UKips current surge in popularity, their share of the popular vote will not translate to many, if any, parliamentary seats in the next general election under our current system.
All politicians court the floating voter - thats the nature of politics. And the manifesto commitments of a particular party should be subject to change - to argue otherwise is to argue for fossilization. It is not always a sign of weakness to change policy direction if the public mood dictates.
And thats where we are at right now. The public mood seems to favour a much reduced state spending programme, and Labour have to recognise that.There is more than a hint that they seriously underestimated the rise in immigration numbers back in the early 2000s - that underestimation has cost the country a lot in strained resources and bad feelings.
So - if Labour wish to regain the confidence of the electorate, it is not sufficient to rely on core voters, the collapse of the LibDem vote, and lack of popularity of the conservatives come the next general election - these will not be enough.
I for one welcome the recognition by Labour that issues such as welfare and benefits systems, and our need to balance out immigration. If they recognise that our relationship with the EU - and the EU itself - needs some reform, all to the good.