Permanent Revolution

Charlie Marks on Mon 22, June 2009 @ 21:04

Charlie Marks — 2009-06-22 21:04:33

It's a shame you don't credit the votes for the Greens. I did not take seriously their anti-capitalism until I found that a few of my relatives had voted for them on these, and other, grounds as an alternative to New Labour.

George B on Tue 23, June 2009 @ 07:38

George B — 2009-06-23 07:38:12

In my experience a significant number of white collar, public sector trade union activists (including ex-Labour Party and not so ex-SWP members) voted for the Greens at the Euro-election, though very few of these would consider themselves potential Green Party supporters at a general election, much less future members/activists.

In general, I think that Mark has offered a serious, sober and broadly accurate assessment of the lie of the land. As most will be aware Dave Prentis (UNISON general secretary) announced a call on the supposedly autonomous Labour Link fund to turn off the tap to constituency Labour parties, but made no mention of the national affiliation fee and made only the modest suggestions (not even Warwick Mark II) in terms of the next Labour manifesto.

This ploy on Prentis' part struck a resonant chord with a very high proportion of delegates and visitors, but nothing else during the course of the week suggested that the union's leadership would do anything at all to rock the boat in the run-up to the next general election, which they too are openly conceding is all but certain to result in a Cameron-led government.

steve on Tue 30, June 2009 @ 06:55

steve — 2009-06-30 06:55:25

At least there is unity in PR. United behind endorsing the reactionary, authoritarian capitalist Labour Party. Get a grip ffs.

Dan on Wed 01, July 2009 @ 22:51

Dan — 2009-07-01 22:51:24

steve at least give a serious response. No-one is "endorsing the labour party". Whatever you think of the critical support tactic, and there are indeed arguments to be had around this, you know that's not what it's based on. There's no point having debate if you throw stuff like that around.