By Ian Dunt Follow @IanDunt

Labour was looking hopefully at Denmark today, as a victory for the left there hinted that the European right's period of dominance may be over.

European centre-left parties have been driven from power across the continent since the financial crisis, as the right took control of country after country under an austerity banner.

But the victory of Helle Thorning-Schmidt, wife of Neil Kinnock's son and leader of the Danish Social Democrats, yesterday managed to buck the trend by promising to increase taxes on bankers and the rich and investment in the economy to stimulate growth.

She also promised to roll back some of the government's anti-immigration policies.

"My warmest congratulations go to my friend and colleague Helle Thorning-Schmidt for her victory in the Danish elections," Ed Miliband said.

"She has shown courage, leadership and determination to win victory and she has also won with a clear mandate for a different economic course for Denmark.

"She will take her place as a very important voice in government shaping the centre-left's direction in Europe," he added.

"I look forward to continuing to work with her, showing the alternative path for our countries to build prosperity, equality and social justice."

Rachel Kinnock, Ms Thorning-Schmidt's sister-in-law, works for Mr Miliband.

A last minute flurry of attacks from the ruling Conservative party alluded to Mr Kinnock's sexuality and tax status, but it was not enough to prevent Ms Thorning-Schmidt becoming the country's first female prime minister.

Turnout was enviously high at 87.7%. The centre-left bloc won 89 seats against 86 for the centre-right.

