Controversial MP Tony Benn denounced spin-doctoring and New Labour at the opening of a festival to celebrate

the life of 18th Century revolutionary Tom Paine.

The veteran politician, who is the latest public figure to attack the Government, spoke out at the launch of the Tom Paine Project in Lewes yesterday.

He honoured the part the campaigner and author of The Rights Of Man played in shaping democracy and said the Government was, in contrast, undermining democracy, leading to cynicism and despair.

Mr Benn said: "If Tom Paine was alive today he would understand exactly what New Labour was all about, running Britain like some medieval monarchy, determined at all costs to hang on to power, surrounded by courtiers, some of whom won their position by flattery, and supported by rich and powerful people, some of whom are seeking personal favours for themselves."

Mr Benn, who will not stand at the next election, called for campaigners to draw up a manifesto of demands and seek support for it from people standing for election.

He said: "I cannot think of anyone who has had such an influence on history for such a long period of time as Tom Paine.

"He believed democracy was about what we did for ourselves, where we lived and worked and that is why we honour his memory today."

Paine lived in Lewes from 1768 to 1774 and was a member of the local debating group, the Headstrong Club, which still meets regularly in the Royal Oak pub to thrash out the issues of the day.

He then moved to America where his ideas on civil rights and democracy played a key part in the revolution.

The festival runs until the end of July and includes a trail map tracing Paine's links with Lewes, such as Bull House in the High Street where he lived, and the bowling green where he played.

There are exhibitions at Barbican House, the town hall and Lewes House and an American battle re-enactment at Firle Place on July 15 and 16.

The festival, which is being funded by the county, district and town councils, the Headstrong Club and local companies, will also feature lectures, musical performances, plays, cinema and guided walks, including street theatre, at 7pm on July 7, 12 and 14, starting from the Barbican Gate at Lewes Castle.

Programmes are available throughout the town.