Labour Briefing no. 37

INSIDE

,@NCU

@ Rape: our verdict

®@ Local government debate @NCC report

As NCU workers start action

DEAN’S WAPPING BETRAYAL

The striking = News cigs, that, stated SOGAT

International printers had By John Tuite should avoid sequestration the will to fight on. Norwood CLP at all costs, Dean found her = gee $$$ @§ one searched for excuse 10

Teal ts the first thing to The strikers themselves dump the printworkers. be said. were taking a very different The NGA leadership for

It_makes even more direction. A mecting of ll its pretensions 0 being criminal the decision of News Intemational chapel more’ fet. than SOGAT. the SOGAT Executive, commiters had just voted collapsed the next day usieg

follored by the NGA's, for organising 2 24hour SOGAT as the excuse santtteey Seppeetre; soppase of Fics Sect The Tory antiunion laws tthdram support for Women Against Murdoch had found ther target Paced Sees peeerentian had decided for a picket of with this display of the laws strike.. the Home Office. deadly potential for any ake of the police sani on teting it be known he TUC certainly didn't feact, 000 strong. first wanicd ‘the pickets and by offering the endangered cchirges, riot squads swiping And decisively Murdoch financial, ~ physical and he truncheons, the stepped in, using fast July's political’ support “There dye, smashing the windows SOGAT and the NGA for crooned. Will, no” doubt Cin Sf the ambulance van; all damages of up to £250,000 glad he'll sooo be able (0 Eafe the Labour Wapping to be paid by the London feadership of the

London Cen ‘condemnation of the “small laws were being used with a condemnations of the ‘minority. vengeance. SOGAT executive's in particular, The response of the decisions combined with

id SOGAT leadership was total total silence on where the

wpeg ers eat send Ogu amino ln

pickets for their own ends year’s delegate conference, Star even’ before the

‘UNITY (S and would bear the brunt of | folishly agreed 10 by the any “public enquiry”. London leadership of the — @ continued on page 5

Golding’s sell-out bid

the NCU’s iy of London West the right wing NCU

chanting ““10% and no abiities which persuaded BE "Fst eporte inate a2 year Campaign Group of MPs negotiations cluding tral fleiiity and and Phil Holt — Chair of They realised a quick ‘Efadiag. are stil> firmly

busy" union leadership to acefuly has been

But it was undoubtedly return to work on ing the General this show of strength rather ail wourable 10 bees re than the General Secretary's management © continuad on page 5

Labour Beiefing Feb. 11-24 1987 page 2

Home News

Trumped up charges!

By Broadwater Farm Defence Campaign The first stage of the trial of six youths Tor the alleged murder of PC Keith Blakelock has deen used by 1€ proxecution and its allies in the media for a general attack on the people of Broadwater Farm. ice accounts of the ising of October 6th, 19S, ‘been sensational ing details oF Blakelock’s| wounds and characterising South on the Estate as "vultures “The Famous story sbour plans to. decapitare Blakelock and parade his bead has. been Fepested ad auscam, It is (rumped-up "police" fantasy corroborated by any Foreninc cvidence or witnesses The purpose of these vague, emotive charges bas bees 10 ehumanise the defendants not fly in the eyes of the Jury but before the public in general Meanwhile, the’ Broadwater Farm Defence Campaign continues iis efforts to. build Solidarity with the defendanis ‘Another mass picket of the Oki

Bailey es ‘held on Mond February. 2nd. Sisty people attended, including delegations from. tirtol, Brixton and Handsworth Support for the framed-up been roseived from ‘of the Campaten Group of Labour MPs,

Including Denis Stinner and |

‘joan Maynard, rom both Maringey PPC : fand Barbara Roche. ard from Haringey Labosr Counc’

It the rcival of Cary on a charge of affray, Detective Constable Sergeant failed 10 funn up for a second day in the tvitnest stand and was later Feported to Be ia no {it state for

ictal role inthe ‘of many of the Fapm detendents many of the bogus are based

1 has been revealed in court that several years ago he as found guilty ina ciel action at cruel and” unacceptable Pehaviour during the Interrogtion of a Black youth

plaved 3

mee Campaign t© attend

Contact: Broadwater Farm Defence Campaign, ce 1216 Tangmere, BWE Estate London N17, Tel: 01-808 1667,

New London Health Emergency

Paper of London Health Emergency

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Socialist Society

Not another magazine!

The Socialist Society and the Conference of Socialist Economists are launching a new magazine called Interlink, Why?

Naturally “enough, for wants 19 disseminate its Views, ‘the Left has a Compulsion 19 publish However, and with al respect fo Briefing, Ris sate to assume that the vest majonty of artcies, ‘Rewsoape magazines, pamphlets, and featiets (not to. mention Statements and manifestos) Brinted by the Left in Britain ‘ver the years has served (0 ‘boost only the selfimportance of ther authors and publishers.

This is not an insult. People need ta feel important

Fr example, the purposely scrufy-iooking newspaper of the. International Leniist Workers. Party, written in stream of consciousness style

By Nick Lewis

by one man, sided by 9 stissors-ang-paste job on the latest Soviet Weakly. from his Hazel Grove front room each Thursday, quite recently contained 3" thundering polemic concerning the. vital importance "af Herel Grove hear crucial sections of Industry ‘apd equally pvotat aire for Lenmnist evolutionary activity. | think was the mighty. Spartacst which had. questioned the relevance of a paper from such So, why start yet another magazine?

Fret. we won't be handicapped by” 3 party rescience”. Parties "and party ines have tended to fil Publications with what the

party wants to hear about self, but not. what people ‘generally want 10 read. ‘Secon there e's neglected area of polities. and soci! activity and activists. not eached by current magazines. We al! make the obigatory noses about “new social

Eurocommunist aifance of progressive f for peaceful change. in Grecton of electing 8 Labor Goverment with SOP

vogk rants t0 reach and reflect people who are active ways against capital and its culture, from. ‘socialist t0 facet to third wrist who feo! their activity to be valid its own night, but who want to Know what's going on in other spheres. Many of these would

refuse to be realigned either as Soft and sensible Kinnockites or an unveconstructed Ceninists

Third, the "realignment referred to above implies that the Left is incapable of producing policy siternatives To those of social democracy OF the fundamentalists. On the Conway: the average non Sectaran left activist “on the - street does not appear to be-short of eee.

Fourth, we are funding ourssives, "besides the Conventional ways, by making Intent usetal — both by featuring sesources avaiable toshe whole Left but also by making our pages avaiable st cost for groups and organisations to use either as

for thet own inform 2 ‘oider arena of what they're up

Our frst issue is avaiable now fom loterink. 9 Poland Street, London WiV 206.

The victims of misrule

The referral of the Birmingham to an appeal court is a testament

I campaigning by

immense odds.

‘Among other things, it raises the question of why the -Labour front . bench, now so keen to pursue the issue, were more interested in sordid deals with Loyalists and jailing Trish nationalists ‘when in government themselves, in the 1970s,

The battle, thoweh, has hardly beau

AS cover-up after scandal cover the fst sear has shown — the state rarely admis 10s trimes, The important aspect 10 femember is that a successful political campaign is possible

However, the. refusal 10 reopen the cases of the Magulres and the Guildford Four shows thow much isto be done

The Guildford Four — Patrick Armstrong, Gerry Conlon, Paul Hill and Caro Richardson —_ have already been in prison for 13 years of 2 Sentence described as the longest ver imposed, 21 life sentences

iece. At the end of their tal judge Donaldson recommended that Hill should never be telease.

Yet their conviction as based solely on alleged confessions, sad t0 contain 100, ontradictions, extracted through Interrogation methods that are no longer lepal inthis ‘country. Tao were interrogated while suffering (rom. drug swithdcawal,

More devastating is the admission, with an accurate and Getaied account, by three members of the IRA unit arrested. after ‘the Baleombe Siret sige that they did

‘AS well a5 aimine to holster the, Anglo-frst “Accord and Fitzgerald's chances inthe Irish lection, Hurd is clearly trying fo play off the Biesingham Six fgtinst the other cases hoping the anger over al three can be diffused by conceding @ tiny bit on one

He must not be allowed to get away ith

“The Labour Party has alot 10 sain, especially in election year, ire campaigns for the immediate release of the Birmingham Six and Guildford Four prisoners and. the exoneration of the Maples as the framed up victims of British mmisrle in Irland,

Council attacks NALGO members

On January 22nd, the initial meeting of the Camden

Polve Consultative Committee was met by @ picket of NALGO, Print worker > Anti Apartheid, Camden Council for Community. Relations, Camden Unemployed, Black Workers Group, King’s Cross Women's Centre, Gay and Lesbian groups” and Briefing. Local feeling was clearly in favour of a boycott of this sham committee which was set up to

sad off growing demands for police accountability and to rubber-stamip police

By Woody Haut and Steve Taylor Hampstead & Highgate cLe

In probably the largest gathering of groups. since rate-capping, about 150 people met outside the Camden Centre to be joined by some $0 police who. “‘consulted the community"” by shoving, people around while escor-

g councillors, community

representatives” and their fellow officers into the meeting. Among those who crossed the picket line were Labour Councillors Ken Holmes, Ben Griffiths, Alan Rippingion.Janct_ Pope, Barbara Hughes, Robert Latham, mayor Mary Cane and Council leader’ Tony Dykes.

Particularly provocative was Hulme who in his at tempt to break through one official NALGO picket line violently barged through four women, although only a fraction calmer was Robert Latham (frequent conwibutor to Briefing) sho

screamed he was carrying ut the manifesto,

Not the case! Not only had the manifesto. stated that Camden would participate in the Consultative ‘Committee on a trial basis — that year ended in December, up to which time the Committee had not met — but the basis on which it was included inthe manifesto was both ques

tionable and controversi with both GCs, the LGC, Borough Conference and community eroups all against participation,

Once the collaborators got through the picket line, there ‘wasn't much 10 do so it was Gecided to leave the police to Siroke their truncheons while we moved inside to put Our views to the meeting

Once inside, a woman remarked, “surprise, surprise, nota single black woman on the Committee, A black comrade held up a Placard saying Who killed Cynthia Jarre? Who shat Cherey Grove? These are the real questions that this eom-

The following week. the Council began disciplinary action against two members of NALGO's EC, including the Chair, for organising the picket

During the same week, though Holborn & St Pan cras GC voted to continue participating in the Commit tee, Hampstead & Highgate GE voted to withdraw, a view reaffirmed at Borongh Conference on January 3151

If there is another Con sultative Committee, — it doubtlessly will be picketted by even more people. The police present last lime were adamant in their desire 10 have an accountable police service — one that won't harrass black people, gays, women and workers. They wanted assurances that plastic bullets and CS gas would never be used in its borough

But they know none of this can be accomplished through this Committee. It is difficult 1o have a rational conversation with someone who’s just hit you over the hhead, ‘This issue has now become a priority tor the people of Camden, The Labour Party should cake notice before it’s too late.

‘School on Socialiem and ‘Nationaliem Saturday 4th April “Oam-6pm City Hall, Glasgow |Speakers: Gunther Minnerup, ‘Denis Canavan MP, George

evan (Edinburgh councillor). Jim Young

Labour Briefing Feb 11-24 1987 page'3

Editorial

Society film and the Subsequent use of the Official Secrets Act may seem miles away fom the concerns of socialists battling to maintain trade

yn organisation, defend

services and. fight racism and sexism. But the fate of these battles is tied with the future of the media in Brit

‘The Tories are intent on shifting the grounds of debate in British politics, along wich altering the balance of class forces. They Took to the United States as an example of how a predominantly privately fwned media can benelit the ruling class, The strategy of the Tories is co discredit che BBC with allegations of

incompetence and “‘lack of patriotism” as a prelude to post-election privatisation.

‘The banning of the Zircon programme is part of this strategy. The use of the Official Secrets Act, the travis of Scottish BBC and New Statesman offices are designed to associate the BBC with the left and attack both. Unfortunately Kinnock, rather than. defending the right of information, fell in behind ‘Thatcher in her attack on the New Statesman, charging her only with incompetence at preventing the publication of Duncan Campbell's article

Tt is Tikely thatthe successor to Alistair Milne as Director General of the BRC will have an anwritien brief of doing a Griffiths

BRIEFING

ZASOUR — TAME THE POWER?

Beware the Tories’ motives!

NHS-type job on the management of the Corporation. This will be made all the easier given the turmoil and demoralisation caused by recent events,

The consequences of leing the government get away with all this will be dire. The Tories have a head fof steam on. broadcasting. ‘They have already started to use the Police and Criminal Evidence Act as an excuse for random checks of press photographers, and are Clearly intent on using the Official Secrets act to initimidate and harass those ‘who stand up for freedom of speech

Both the BBC and the media in general have an anti-working class bias; both are sexist and homophobic. However, the

BBC, as a __ public corporation and because of the traditions which have grown up over the years, docs have some independence from the capitalist class and its state ‘machine,

Constraints

Also, through the laws governing broadcasting, it does carry a range of opinions, including those which are critical of the British establishment. British traditions of investigative journalism may fall short of those of the States, but within the constraints of having no Freedom of Information Bill e tradition is still alive — bolstered by the independent left press and the NUJ

We must defend the BBC

critically — just _as our defence of the NHS, or the education system, is critical The attacks by the Tories amount to censorship, censorship of material the public has a right to know

Despite the anti-working class bias of much BBC reporting, we should oppose theTory plans to hand over the BBC to their friends in the City to make profits at the same» time as manipulating the media for their own ends.

The Tory goal is a privately run system in which journalists are either too scared ar are prohibited from reporting as they would like. The aim is 10 alter permanently the type of material which comes to people from their radios and TVs. The consequences for

freedom of discussion areal

We need to develop a debate around these issues at grass roots. level. The Campaign for Press and Broadcasting Freedom has a Media Manifesto” which can be used to start the debate oft.

Not to do this, to think the BBC and its journalists deserve to be bitten by their paymasters, is to miss the point. Our battle for working class access 10 the media, against sexism, racism and homophobia, will not be won if we lose the first round by surrendering the rights which exist at the moment,

“Available from 9, Poland

Street, Lonilon. 01-437 2795

Latest rape trial outrage:

Whose justice is

Five years for burglary, five years for rape... The clarity of the injustice of the sentence in the

Ealing Vicarage Rape Case" has led to a publi outery.

How can burglary — 2 crime against property — be a5 serious as the brutal rape

4 young woman?

Wel, that's the logic of capitalism for. you! The apitalist system is based on property — you are what You ovn, and the “law"” is there 10 uphold your right 10 keep it

The Same julia system that valued” burglary and rape Eaually at 3 years also sentenced Kent striking.» miner Tey Sanding up for workers rights, fighis. Whose justice Ie

By Jenny Fisher Bow & Poplar CLP

Bir the weatment of the ase, by the press and the Judge, reveals yet more horrors about Gur system of so-called justice”

‘Would there have been the same kind of public outery i the Victim had een a prostiute? Clearly, sadly, the answer is

10. By stressing the vicim in thls case wae a virgin, part of 3 (Christian family, the press made lear she didn't “deserve. the Sttack — but this angle implies that other women dol

‘When people judge alleged pes oo! whether they were ‘deserved"" or “provoked” they help. perpetuate cape by erpetuating a possible Pdefence”

We demand the press condemns rape attacks because the viet was & woman rather than’ because of viepinity. oF amily status —— because we demand fight against rape being committed at al

We also demand: no

questioning of a victim's sexual Ristory — i is irrelevant to the crime committed. This includes ‘marital status: rape in marriage ‘ust be made e crime The Judge reduced the sentence because the (Christianity of the vietim would ie". Women don’t “get over” rape — the trauma lasts for life — and ability to work, to travel, to 20 fut, to continue living in your wn homes may also” be permanently affected.

de the Law Cou!

We demand public Funding — without strings — for rape ersis wéghout Britain, for Support schemes.” for ss transport and” for Fchousing where rea The last public o when 2 TV. documentary Showed the treatment a woman received when reporting rape — fed to. some improved procedures and facilities, but howhere near enough. We Semand (especial rape suites im every

and women doctors; complete anonymity for rape wits.

‘The Ealing case has led to many people — including Neil Kinnock — demanding longer prison sentences.” But just Gemanding Jonger sentences, then sitting back and thinking you've done sour Bit isn't good enough,

Many sex offenders

reoffend after release from

offenders. notoriously seta “bad time" fom fellos Prisoners. In some cases this {reatment can lead to a stronger Sesire to assert himself in the Same way on release: and encourage re-offending (© Many rapes are commited close 19 (and sometimes in) the fapisis” — and the victims’ — homes. A ‘released offender, ‘eturming to his old haunts ear even after many years, force @

victim to move away, a8 the only way to avoid her attacker Longer sentenes in conventional, prisons will keep fapists off the strects for longer; bat if they only delay a repeat offence, or delay a toss of freedom for the vietim, they are ‘0 great comfor ‘While demanding longer periods of custody for convicted Fapiss, who should ~ like those onvicied of racial attacks — fot be returned to the scene of thir crimes. prematurely, we also demand: ‘ethe emphasis in_ custody should be on preventing. re- ‘tfence, with treatment. and Fehabiltation: the ikelinood of Feoffence should not be left £0 chance! ‘ecxtend sentencing beyond simple prison custody; include ie probationary supervision rh aimed at introduce Conditions on release — make the rapist move away, not the

Above all, we demand

measures. aimed at preventing inthe Fist place no jst

ealing with it after the event

self-defence classes for gicls im all schools; free classes available in all LEAS, with free hildeare and teansport) for flasses organised int the ‘workplace, im worktime, ith 1 loss pa.

adequate sueet lighting where women want it adequate Staffing levels on public Transport; public funding. for ‘women-only transport.

full support — with funding —* to programmes in schools and. fn local authorities fencrally to promote positive Images of women and. 10 promote. women’s "self rganisation

‘These are demands we must make to. increase | women’s Safety in the here and now. But ‘we make them in the knowledge that rape, as the uldmate expression of male power, will baly be truly challenged withthe overthrow of capitalism, and eradicated by the victory of Socialism,

Labour Briefing Feb 1]-24 1987 page +

Trade Union Briefing

Hangers management ordered to go!

It’s been an active time for the negotiations at JE Hangers & Co, The supposed deadline was January 28th. ‘The company have admitted that they have drawn up 2 “hidist” containing at least 8 disputes committee members and possibly seven other union activists.

"The offer on January 27th included a bribe of £25,000 10 be shared by the disputes committee if they would recommend “cceptance. Latest terms included 92 fulltime jobs and a £52 eduction in wages for the store workers.

“The company has also decided to tecmisate apprenticeships and issue papers to those in their fourth (and last) year, Fegariless of thei not finishing the course, Pressure Is also being extended to the foremen to work on the Beach and do th scked men's work,

‘At the mass meeting on January 28th the disputes comm did not fecommend the latest offer. However, #4 did vote 10 Scvepe with 142 voting 1 reject it after they were Dersuasi

Eneourazed (0 accept the deal by TASS Assistant General Seerctary Mr Jones, and FTAT General Secretary Colin Christopher.

‘On Ecbruary Ist, ASTMS invited Christopher and Jones to a meeting with feo members of Hanger’s management present ‘The following day, the disputes committee were fold to report to Park House TASS headquarters. Thirtoon were there for frucling 13 hours, with (wo of management in a room next tor

it was agreed to try and find new common grounds to end the dispute, The company declared that they would reduce the fumbers om the hitlist down to eight. A third perons (sin the process of being reviewed, and may also be removed from the fist And they dropped the plan to reduce the store workers wages.

"Fhe £25,000 was sill on the table, but management saying incre really wasn'ta hist and that they will give give glowing feferences and not impede anyone's employment in the a fimb industry, tut they sill wouldn't be allowed towork at Hanger's. Steve Blease of the disputes committee said "Management's coments on the Rilst are highly dubious

"Alter much heartsearching, i was agreed by a very close vo with 2 resigning before the vole and oe abstention) recommend that latest offer,

‘On February 4th, 5 minutes before the start of the mass meeting, the management offer was withdcawn, The company fegotiating for BTR said shar the local Hanger's managesient Rad no right to make the offer and are not allowing them 10 Continue im any future negotiations

"The sacked workforce now plant to escalate ther action and go 10 the other Hanger's branches for support. Hugh Siceper & Eh.ca private artificial arm maker Tirm in Roehampton, ha ‘withdrawn from national joint wage negotiating panel. They are iso members of FLAT and refuse 1o sit on the Panel with BTR.

"SSTMIS have now instructed ite members to abide by Rule ‘as igidly as possible — that is, the rule saying not to do any irork of the sacked workers. Management has been warned Deficially hat if any ASTMS member is threatened with fismissal or sacked then ASTMS will also enter official dispute ‘with Hangers

Supports coming from varied quarters. The Bishop of Kingston has said thar Hanger’ behaviour i immoral, The TUC has voted BTR the worst employers in the UK. And even David Mellor, Putney's Tory MP, has said tha he will come out publicly in support of the sacked workforce and will savage BER in the press.

It is alleged thai Hanger's eave their reassurance to the governiment that they would sort out the dispute, This is clearly fot the case. Pressure should be mounted nationally on the DHSS through Parliament fo solve this dreadful situation.

Police are now qui vigorous on the picket line. On Monday February 2nd they decided that only six were allowed on each {gale and no one is allowed (0 use a loud hailer at any time Rochampron Vale is ane of the busiest roads for traffic in London, 40 the marginal noise created by using a loudhailer ‘would Be minimal?

Hanger's women’s support group held a very enjoyable and suseesfil disco for their men and Families on February 6th,

Please send messages of support and financial support co Steve Blease c/0 TASS, 520 London Road, Micham, Surrey eRe 4¥Q,

‘Kathy Pick, Wandsworth Councillor, Puiney CLP

Victory for LRT Workers

Following the suspension of the NUR’s one-day

LRT has withdrawn the £30 per weck wage cuts and all canteen staff will get a 5% increase in basic pay backdated 10 April 14th 1986.

Management have failed in their attempt to hive off ‘an important section of the workforce as a separate bargaining unit. Canteen workers have received the same increase as all other LRT workers for 1986. The NUR’s campaign has stalled the whole process of competitive tendering for this Section of London's

transport workers for at least one year.

For the union movement in LRT there is also another significant gain. Mangement Clearly calculated chat in the present situation the union and its negotiators would ‘Quietly ignore a wage cut ‘aimed at the very weakest section of the workforce.

By Patrick Sikorski NUR

‘After the defeat of the union’s strike against one person operation in May, 1985, they must have thought it reasonable to assume that if the over whelmingly male, majority white, and economically Strongest section of _the workforce wouldn't. Fight against the elimination of the whole guard grade then it was a pretty safe bet they

wouldn't exert_ themselves for the canteen workers who are overwhelmingly female, majority black, and the traditional object of moans about food and ser vice. The NUR surprised everyone by showing that it will defend every single one of its members.

Management’ have now withdrawn theic implementation date for the closure of Euston train crew depot on the Northern Line. Had the closure of this small depot gone through it would have fereated a dangerous precedent, encouraging management ¢o go ahead with plans to close smaller depots throughout the Underground. The question of competitive tendering has been put back into negotiation.

The proposed destaffing of stations and the introduc

tion of the automated Underground Ticketing Systems have also been delayed.

‘Nonetheless, the management's overall strategy has not been reversed. Their wholesale competitive tendering plans remain on the table, although now within" the agreed machinery. Working parties have been set up nationally and with some of the Separate “‘profit centres" like LRT Catering) to ‘determine how best 10 make (them) more competitive,"” True, agreement with the unions must be feached at every stage before changes are introduced. But the continuing danger to the membership is all too clear. It is not a question of Whether there will be further confrontations but only a matter of when,

Wheelers strike ste

‘The Wheelers Strike was several important conferences

‘nthe horizon brought to London at a “Wider mobilisation became

public meeting at the pariculariy significant when Covent Gardens four other workers in separate Community Centre on Wheelers branches in London

Febriary 2nd. wreve. sacked. for no. apparent

groups and other political

auranis and other. major tsablishments, and wellknown

the catering sector for being Sirulently antiunion, could 20 'A London support group longer deny. involvement ip the

‘ie Brighton.

is needed to reach the large Wheelers disp umbers of highly exploited {Re campaign to. boycott the ae se Workers Wheelers restaurant in Brighton

based in London Events coming up: Sat Feb

This industrial action by the (28th T&G demo in support four Whecies chefs couki*have of Wheelers strike. March massive impact on anemptsso from Queen's Square, Eagaze “Chinese workers in Brighton, noon.

Seine wade union membership. Thurs Mar Sth: AN-out nd support from their Chinese Jeafletting of Wheelers fomeaies would be. =) tramehes'in London.

sre cies obviously sarge _ Sat Meat Stet: Whesters pool af support within black strike benefit im Peckham. Ceganisations, wade union Further details and

Branches and political groups imformation about support, Based in London which this group meetings, speakers strike needs (0 tap into, Sivthe Wheelers strike and

corcregsttos siesolaied pack — Sonne oa nace asoossropome; bt weal Sotee ter sg ‘organisational support, Shaftesbury Avenue,

jally now that there London WC2, 01-379 5098.

Condo

By Ai Meun Lim Wheelers Strike, London Support Group

Speakers at the meeting iacladed Mee Ne sham Labour Council) (Mtigrans, Emigrants Unionisation Turnbull of the TAG Hotel and ing London branches) and ‘(Wheelers

ker shop steward), The Group portunity 10 show solidarity smith the NCU (E} cooirades on Strike, with Manay Branch the meeting. Beanie Buncie was fso there to give 4 message of idarty from Labost Pa Black Sections The ofgamisers reported on

Regional Committee to give the sinike some legal and financial assistance. There had also been fecent moves by Kennedy Brookes 10 enter itd Soeussions "with Union represematives overoae of the ‘seked workers in London.

DS UD

(Cheung San Hans (Wheelers S Goumeslion at the London Support meeting

The Support Group also managed to in Union Sgrcement on the payment of imerpreters fees and travelling expenses, We hope this will now {Become normal Union practice, 2s the presence of incerpreiers fon this picket not only greatly

Sontributed 10 its effectivenes but also challenged some of the Blatant racism — encountered

‘from the Police and customers. ‘A public mecting and TOWU sponsored demonstration is being organised to reassert this fight to. the wider labour ‘The experiences of the chinese "community ia countering “both powerful management and_ bureaucratic ‘onions, and the soldiarity links

they hay established through this strike will no doubt hold them in good stead for future Srugeles, But with the many ther Chinese workers and Back catering workers looking tarthis strike to prove the power ff direct action and collective Bargaining. through recognised (rade unions, a victory 18 imperative,

PHOTO Cv Chan

Labour Briefing Feb 11-24 1987 poge §

Trade

Union Briefing

NCU

olding’s sellout bid

© continued trom front page jp's conduct_of the

publicly pressing for this ~The Doncaster, Newcastle serangenient and Derry branches have passed Under the sel-out proposal, “po confidence” motions in BT would make x major step Golding as General Se towards the lower paid amd The strike is solid

Smaller engineering WorkForce as it enters its fourth week in that has heen thelr major London, and sts fifth for many

Sbjecive inthis’ dispute. out of London, Mass meetings Redundancies would inevitably have reaffiemed support tor the be involved dispute by 99.1% margins

‘But themajor London branch BT management and union

saderships wil almost certainly leaders"ake have been caueht Fecommend a sejection of the largely unprepared for his eal, and there are signs of @ reaction.

halioaside revolt against the They had been counting on =

Strike bites in North West

Telephone engineers in Lancashice and Cumbria voted solidly ‘at mass meetings to join the NCU suiks. Picketing has been

For 2 weeks the clerical section joined the action. Clerical workers voted unanimously to stay out until the District Management lifted any ttweat of suspension. As the company have now accepted the clerical workers’ bon, they returned #0 ‘work "but with the overtime ban and wor to rua intact.

Engineering and clerical workers took thels campaign to the rest af the area with Preston based stall organising @ march land mass rally in the town centre.

Resisting management provocations over emergency cover show the mood of the engineers clearly: angry and prepared for a fight

‘Tho Preston branch of the NCU (E} launched a hardship fund ‘and organised an appeal for support from other trade unions.

Scottish Labour Briefing

10 per cent — no sings!

rapid collapse ofthe membership and a swif ‘erilement Gn thei terms

‘After all the NCU (E) had Just elected aright wing General Secrewry and Exsoutive Council. and had never called a national all-out indefinite sirtke ints history

Despite a wall of silence from management, the City, the tunion leadership and the media bout the effects of the strike, Feports indicate that ii biting ‘around the country, with whole ‘exchanges crashing, major cable breakdowns, and cestomers severely affected. Access Threatening to sue BY for £27 milion per ‘dav for lose of

Management_personel_ and the few scabs are unable 19 Ope ‘sith the volume of faults

"You don’t hear about al this, because the government i

arity")

Far_ from collapsing, the strike has grown i strength and miltaicy,. andthe union's Engineering “Group Exccutlse Council, shich is facing election ia two months” time, i funder" fromendous pressure irom the Branches over the “sarings" — and the flexibility and. regrading questions in Prom the beginning branch leaderships and. activists have been intensely and justifiably ‘tical of Golding’s conduct of the dispute and negotiations

‘An increasingly prominent role in "co-ordinating branch responses i being played by the ‘unofficial ‘Co-ordiating Committee of London bbeanches. This ha already been able tor draw together Information about the effets of the sike and to formulate and co-ordinate policy nationally independently of the ational Ieadeeship, so limiting its room for manocuvre. These include tle tricks Tike union HQ

informing, provincial branches that London is wavering and

Unfortunately, the Broad Lefided clerical’ Section Executive failed to. grasp the eile of calling an all-out indetinite strike im pursuit of Ube own claim, and its 3 day action ended in tragic Scenes of ite members having. 10. cross engineering picket lines,

The engineering section srike can be won. BY's City sicker management is om the run.

The trade union ‘movement desperately nosde a victory after sears of defeat and retreat. But

expect no help from the TUC or the Labour teadership,

Many of our members are bepinning 10" experience real hardship as the NCU does not pay strike pay

Please invite speakers organise donations and collections in your workplace, Labour Parties and trade inion branches.

10% — No Strings?

PHOTO-Androw Wines

National Justice for Mineworkers Campaign (South East Region) MINERS BENEFIT with Hangers, Silentnight. Printworkers at Wembley Conference Centre 7.30 Sunday 1st March (date and artistes to be confirmed)

Caterpillar occupation: what next?

Caterpillar say the reason for their closure of two plants in the US and one in Scotland is the decline in

orders from underdeveloped contries and compeititon

from Japan.

Yet the company has opened plants in Brazil, Mexico, Indonesia and india aver recent years. Many workers beke roduction is being transferred fram the US and Scottish lante to take advantage of lawer labour costs in the thvtd World, According to management. tho Seattish plat was “ane right size ta close’ Oniy three months prior to this. the ‘company hold an open day for employers and thait famvies. Wide publicity was given to the announcement of 3 £62 milion investment pian

‘Many of the 1220 workforce tack the compnay om foith and made important dacisions (taking on # morgage, buying Sars, even starting 2 farnly), No woader enfuriated workers invnediately occupied the plant when they learned of management's closure plans

‘Support for the decupation s so broad that even the Tory ‘Scottish Secretary has al but approved of it. At present Caterpilar shop stewards ate attempting 10 mobiise Solidanty by sn appeal for moral and financial support. White this ls Important, i's not enough. Moral and financial suppor wll giadualy dissipate unless it ie inked to a e'ear strategy

Commenting on the Scottish occupation @ US trade unvon offical, interviewed in a Scottish Sunday paper. said "We ‘can't understand why the caps ain't n their bustin” heads, ‘Alter al is company property

This business unoniam Iwhich the EETPU seeks to import from tho USA) makes the pronsect of a joint serggle Between the Scottish and US plants earmarked for closure 5 of starter. The slernative well-worn path of heading down 10 Westminster ta lobby suppart from MPs offers litle hape, ven inan election year

‘The (artcash steel works, 9 stone’s throw fiom the Caterpillar plant, closed last year desoite 2 workers’ march to London to ioboy MPs

Both Tory and Labour Party leaders in Scotland seek to pressure the parent corporation into a change, or Bitematively to find another buyer for the plant. Although this isn't entirely Impossible, it implies the workers should return ta normal working and present a picture of moderation te potential suyers. In the meantime, lack of 3 clear means ff winning the struggle wil demoraise the workers.

‘Send support and donations to Caterpillar Occupation ‘Appeal, Thomas Stevenson, Treasurer, 17 Compsie View Bargeddie, Bailieston, Glasgow

Jim Niblock

(© continued from tront page chapels -xoted — shifted from talking about "‘jobs jand trade union rights" a Wapping to talking abou “anionising Wapping Hardly the way to give fighting spirit 1o abandoned period (that ends as we 2 Press). Murdoch» has Feopened his offer of Jcompensation for a mont no doubt remembering to take for granted tha rank and file will give in. ‘Some ch already voted to acce

by printers will have to confront head-on the Tory tunion laws, no doubt backed up by disciplinary measures from their unions.

Soon, another shadow will loom over continued picketing — the Public Order Act. After January 24th, roth che police and Douglas Hurd pressed for its passage to be sppeeeded up. It will give police sweeping powers to control or simply fefuse marches, pickets and assemblies

Whatever the-ot the chapel_meetines, nucleus of strikers the Fleet St Support Unit will continue to _ fight particularly. around the

ping betrayal

‘acutely urgent question of accountability, as well as for 2 single union for the industry. At London Labour Party Conference this year there are plans to set up a Broad Left.

For over a year the

idurance, solidarity and principled Tight of the News International strikers remained unbroken. If they continue to fight

independent of their ational unions, solidarity must’ be stepped up enormously by the rest oF the labour movement. If isolated and betrayed, they finally succumb, the major blame goes on the shoulders of their national leadership, But it doesn't stop he The defeat at Wapping will encourage every print baron to press home the enormous

attacks around new technology and job cuts that Fleet St has seen this year The betrayal will have Jasting effects. Lastly, like the miners, there will be printers without jobs and printers in prison, Like the miners we must support and fight for justice for people now, and de any future Lavour government ensures it.

Labour Briefing Feb 11-24 1987 page 6

Local Government — Debate A political finance Our polic

government: budget policy. We print here two debate articles, outlining some

was based.

Briefing supporters also met in Haringey on Febr below.

Whilst, as the resolution shows, there is much ag general aims we have in local government, the next decision between the different views presented in t! Briefing supporters.

But remember, although we may take democratic,

authorities haye used a ‘our paper are always open to further debate.

number of — ingenious financial devices to secure

ih he complex func a aveilable for local government and Labour Couneis

In the absence of any funds.

longterm strategy since the - 7 ke . 2, We will give full support to any Councils which] Gest of the ictus io st > : Tory government or end up with a deficit budget Se ee ¢ 3. We will give full support to the workforce in an arifting. 2 ° ee to introduce cuts or deterioration in jobs and servi Two and a half years ago : ey 4. We will under no circumstances support any c

Hatingey Labour Briefing, vith Councillors will resign any positions as Committee

fdvocated.a deft budgeting 4 Pett : against them in the Party and Group and campaig Strategy, Our intention was to '5. We will begin to work now for the adoption of

pain pending acing borough and for the full and speedy implementatiol

fap limit, and work to ensure Would unite service osers and Council workers in a national caepaiee er Secure eecreased Tuning and an end (0, rate capping.

By Cllr Craig Brewin Haringey

Unfortunately, this position was never adapted ie practice By Any of the Labour Councils. We all kuow the debacle which

Last year, Haringey Labour Briefing decided. that the time hhad come for a-reexamination bf “the focal goverament Financial position. Simply festating. a formula artived. at theo years earlier was no Jong Satislactory. We had to take into account the changed politi

argued that we are forming an workers in those countries

Fearne e implementing t Unboly alliance with the forces because of the terms. of strtggle of "85, the e (phone OF 881 1479 ‘oF capital By relying on the city rextrecturing — bat in none of hare of creative a Tor funding. countries has 3. socialist

increasingly used to For os the Mani administration been in power

upplement revenic). and the es wich the will to mobilise the

results of the May ‘86 cleiions. "Our strategy is based on the population to demand & better Tn ibis. election Labour in objective of no cus i J

Haringey. scored an historic services and Full mp he capitalist hea

Victory. Campaigning opealy'on of the manifesto. es ed

an expansionist and of our Manifesto re nancial crises with

confrontational manifesto, wih new finance, we results. Where New high priority to aaritacises, Commitments whic York went down to the bankers nisexim, and anit: major. capital “and revenue eats, Cleveland. stood is hecerosexism, and improved cxpemse stound and won refinancing on

serice deinrcys we teeured the We say thai if theses funds ist” or that money sown terme Biggest Labour Group ever in cannot be raised from 0 rom banks issomchow One of our tasks must be 10 Haringey. Weno longer require or feom central government we more tainted than link our srugele with that ofthe

merely a. restoration of lock Should attempt to borrow he grant and an end to rate ting this position we ‘capping. We need an increase in have faced criticism From Both {otal resources to meer the needs

of the borough, which a creased” dramatically since 1979. The Basic premise of the = old erie budget stratepy is Xtanifesto rather “tian put therefore outdated ourselves” massively in Harirges Labour Briefing has Some comrades on the lf

third world and those oiher

iis which face similar Cleary, the successor failure of a borrowing. strategy. wil

which sill refuse to willbe taking the borrow road by stealth, dh mot stra The House of Commons

By Reg Race

workers ervice | government. Enticipated, they lose grant,

ur financial | Reading in the Commons jar‘Sur ic rs no on February 4th, and is The Bill will end this service designed to give the redistribution and it will

million in unclaimed Block the wiital fo the Tieasge

any vest. When he chooses in the future and t0

Labour Briefing Feb 11-24 1987 page 7

Local Government — Debate

debate | The final crunch

debate on the crunch issue facing local

taking different approa- Sommiced fo continuity the

f the di

ry 7th, and passed a resolution, which we print fches on the latest round (Oryan/tejo.comtinuing the

jof local government —fas_been. more cautious in mement between Briefing supporters on the budget-making. deciding its budget strategy Steering Committee of Briefing will be taking a | ‘Against the advice of the

es i jor In Camden and Haringey. jeadership, it agreed to apply p debate articles, to define the majority position of [imasve “borrowing is (aetshib,Htagresd oapph

[proposed. In Ealing @ huge Not that it did much good,

, the pages of = tise is the order of the 3; Ridley has done away Fe "Eating should be warnes. SARE thing ide unionists and Party members — agree the kd Goines Toe tort of 2 eee nances: attack on working class Lambeth nment, systematically reducing the funds pockets paves the way for How do we proceed in particular. It has been aided by the Labour ‘mass abstention at the polls Lambeth? With a standstill g the Tory government or to give any guarantee | fScqughe "mn 1982. OF ude! of £203 million anda viding an adequate level of central government course, for many London fOvr"TurTi.s> capenaiture PStoccts the Ealing option mit of 152 milion, either openly go down the road of confronting the | nolongsrensts. | Qa the one hand, Linda hile attempting to meet local social needs nbatgcapping ~has moved ellos and others are borough in opposing open or backdoor attempts | experience is the more Sauing for massive creative es provided. typical. Having given uP {sing £12 million from the open or hidden, in jobs or services, and during the ratecapping workers Superannuation jairs rather than implement such cuts, vote grea. and cesate? Fund. Unfortunately, this openly against them Seren tateteneae ok ore te ee | of such manifestos. seem to be further special keep at a standstill”

finance deals, along with = hata StanGsll iy retrenchment million will be found by

are out of the window as

j to keep council budgets out by the local

Spt And of fears to Parties and attracting over rally the Jet in defence of Boone ict ai’peas for'a 100 Party members and same time, the Conference the Manifesto, Se eat ray tor Council cade unionists has ejected measures to reduce Only witha. clear and to bail us out % greed to fight for a budget the Budget such asthe we of honest. deficit budget,

In Camden we seem to that begin yur the Superannuation Fund or aiming to mect the needs of have the left variant of this Manifesto and address the capitalisation of housing local people, can we build a strategy. Let's borrow like needs of local people. fepaits. Instead, it called on real campaign to. defend

mad sotharwecan meet our Committee Chairs have the Council leadership 10 local services and local Manifesto commitments. At bee0 asked to bring forward draw up proposals to come democracy. Half’ measures feast this has the merits of back 10 another conference and fudged budgets based Pbeing honest in its intent, to be used as the launch of aon massive borrowing only but can it deliver? Like other widespread campaign to have the effect of destroying vegies Gane con Coward defend and extend council the council's capital by ratecapped boroughs, it services programme, and of

MAS other boroughs, who

‘troops. Of the local Parties, Linda importance for our activity in Lambeth, the succhar Bellos is making it harder to

in local government.

es Again!

amount of Block grant it gots. the then Environment Minister | In the past, Secretaries of William Waldegrave told the i

State had to base aifferential Commons that the Rate

wgetmant “ean, of Supper Gants 1306 wes

‘ouncils with the same "the final solution” ( functions (e.g. all County problem. of Bagal Counciis|. Now, he can single perpetrated by

out Lambeth, ‘or Bront, “or Ministers. And. yet. Haringey ifhedisikes them: or month, they. have ‘give additional grant to his |ntraduce two more friends in Tory councils; of validate yet more foul-uns'

give less grant to” all "They are nat finished yet. A Fotecapped ‘Councils: or further Local Government il

the argument that the choxe off any ancess to the SSocrotary of State has acted courts by local authorities on unreasonably paints of administrative law "They are keen to make th Grant” system even” more The new Bill also reetifies Unfair. And. they hope. ‘by Yyot more tecenily “Mentified viltying progressive, abou Mlegalties in the operation of Councils, to win the General the Rata Suppor Grant Election ‘and set in train yet system since 1981 more ‘As tacently a5 last summer, lagslation

fsiutranly set rate limits to. be published tm. mud [designed to slash Services and February, will deat with the jabs compulsory. privatisation of |The new Bill also gives local authority services, and Fridley "further" “dudge- will attack. publcity | and [proofing’". I'vitually rules out Greative accounting powers

Eany legal challenge based an Ministers are. desperate to

Labour Briefing Feb 11-26 1987 page 8

Building Briefing

500 Club Winner

Not only do we move out of London (at last!) for this winner, we move out of England too!

Congratulations are in order to A. Scandrett of Cardiff — holder of the winning share number 73.

Now that we're drawing the prizes, comrades are returning standing order forms, and joining up.

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Socialist Policies

fora Labour Victory!

Conference organised by Labour Briefing Sat/Sun 28/29th March Lambeth Town Hall, Brixton

‘Speakers include: Eric Heffer MP, Jeremy Corbyn MP, Mildred Gordon PPC, Joy Hurcombe PPC, Chair Labour CND, Nadine Finch Chair LCi, Narendra Makanji Chair Labour Party Black Sections, John Palmer Socialist Society.

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Write to Letters Editor, 26 Wattisfield Road, London ES.

Dear Sisters, “The exasperation expressed in the report on WAC's AGM Is Shared by” many WAC members. After a year on the WAC EC (West Midlands rep) too. had become. extremely Frustrated with the organisation and was_ceriously considering letting my membership lapse Fortunately. {hesitated and reconsidered why Thad joined WAC. and those teasons have yanged. "We sil need 10 wee the sructure “of the Labour Party {and society) if women are to gain equal power Despite contraception, equal pay, eaual opportunities polices, easier access to further

lucation, increased — though Sill timited childcare Provision, working class women Fave gained very tile in the last

fifty years Gf we discount the war years) iets only if more women gain power thal we wil then acbiese ual eights for all women. ‘single visit (0 the House of, Commons "was. enough 10 convince me. What I witnessed filed me with an intense desire power and change the anarchic School-boyist system. Any Socialist women who witnessed the dark ‘suited Teaders of our Party laughing and joking with the opposition while 2 serious Sebate was taking place oncerning the ‘nceds of the Physically handicapped, would ce the importance of change. ‘Women have the willy the way, the energy. and” the imagination to steate & socialist society — we just need the hance. This Labour Party has fot given ts the chance ‘WAC aims will win equality for women. ie is common sense that the National Executive Women's section should be elected by Women's Conference, of course the Women’s conference should have the right 10 table five motions. ont any subject to ‘Annual Conference, 10 appear fon the agenda as aright. Positive discrimination for ‘women on every shortlist would Soon secure equal fepresentation. Many men as swell as women would wish that parliament kept t0 office hours. ‘Aca WAC. EC. delegate travelling once a month from Birmingham to London, 1 was fed up sith arriving at meetings to listen to London WAC dicass fuues that they should have

Giscussed at their” Fepional mmectings. Twat fed up with not

knowing who. the” various visitors to the FCS were and not

knowing who had the right (0 ote. [was fed up feeling like a ouniry mouse coming up 10 Condon. Fed up. with oot tunderstanding the in talk” and fegotiations thal went On, that | ould not see the wed Tor or the

sons why fepional WAC epresentatives could. 01 fondertake, So | stood for Chair

WAC must now moxe on by consolidating ts membership, Clarifying it stance buildup Support at branch level, and attract more members inorder fo ensure that” sympathetic resolutions go. through branches, sisters get nominated as delegates, and that sisters get the support they need If hominated for counell oF parliamentary seas

‘Hundreds of women in ti Parly have never “hear of WAC. "The more politically experienced members of WAC feed to link sith new members fo increase WAC'S expertise and fencourage by. example more ‘Women to challenge men

More women must be involved in bulletin production,

resolution production, leaflet Preparation, Tesolution Eomposition and "support

Seeking, The whole conference Grous needs demystilying

Finally, book your diaries sisters: the next WAC AGM is December Sth, 1987 in Bristol (Go it will not clash with the Greenham "demonstration. When Rosa Luxembours urged socialisis to, build towards a Eocialist world for our children and. grandchildren she had not Sonsidered such a thing as ‘nuclear war). Let's hope ext year's AGM report is positive dnd that sisters in the Labour Pary’ are united. in working towards our goal of equality ‘with those powerful men in dark Suits and then we can achieve socialism,

Pauline Purnell

Chair, WAC

Gna personal capacity)

Dear Comrades,

Reading the prophetie item in the last Briefing about Terry Waite, Loan reminded of story. recounted by the centeal character’ in Norman. Lewie’s hovel The Sicilian Speciatst

The character, @ malia it san, recalls an article he had cad! about the burial of Egypcian pharaoh amidst is treasures, "followed by the Stranaling of all those involved im the building of the sectet tomb by an executioner — and ‘as himsel! then strangled

‘A lesson therefor the Ar shbishop and his envoy?

Dave Robinson

Haringey

Send snippets and info ta Greg Bassett, Periscope Column, Labour Briefing. "26 Crofton Road, London SES.

‘Brent hunts \defectors

aimed figures: test ofa secret all ‘Meanehile plans sarun of badges proclaim smn of the GC mesting wth bes the Eleventh" Person fombshell claim: ‘ould bale the publ Thave ar to people on thi. etter abe hats ie "Anous looks were exchanged

smo too quiet —

He was gules fs Brent

os could ave heard 9 prierpie War he biting? Has some somades been Kinnocked? Why

fiver” to Lvingstone. Even Ken ad reengnised the gveawa vmaprome, of the hardened

postions Tage thie faces comorted sth scr and they adepe ageressice > portarer ards me ut are-we realy 0 believe atthe less handsome punters of rear East are all part of « mss

frovemen: aguinst poor old Ken?

Cashing in on AIDS - I.

[A bank offering no terest) Yes. 3 Commerci! bisod bank ie panned be exited Gioucestersire

The dea is 5 simple as che n= tended account, holders Depositors wth more money than serve woud be able co draw ove nitty what thoy pot in — thor Sny rk of AIDS from donated bios

“The “Lerer. Archur Medea! Centre” wil cont £250,000 to sat

comity colegio ae

op a a foces for wealthy

Permode. The two busnesmen doo Kubler Evoked tend to convert ano feportcd the exp Rocks of blood” They promsc apsd devery ——-by heicopeer need bef 8 customer (Grgent reed of s waneiuson

Buc homps of fozen blood. feed to be thawed ou

What bugs Golding?

One, choroughty British Johnoy is NCU Teaser john Golding Even while “Testy the Telecom

celephone

ic would be necesary to check ger. ‘Hood balance before having Scab phanetappers he told The “Anyoy. che business wil Gira of the NCU members who tof 3 reskin the routine bosses behind che scheme: at the

rein that dor more people wal Decome aware shat the" phones Satan typed = ond Oa et minbie the Buardane of aconal ‘Svestoping and haan

Perhaps i gst at well the NCU rank aed fie haven’ used ‘ha argument cher leafless! A ‘reptaton athe omen with more {ps tos crede than Fred Asaire ‘would do che NCU no good aah

WF thae approach did catch on, ext thng you know the Pros Officers el be arguing that ony ‘er members know how to beat @ pracners. properly who. ‘easing obvious Sruses: or the Inland’ Revenue Stat Federation

Cashing in on AIDS - 2.

“heap imported condoms ace the lacest danger to face the Brith public, according to + Daily Mr.

of ab

wal aim that any won members| how how best toler the wealthy edge taxes wile clobbering the worker

Odds on Guinness

In the wate af the Guinness scam dals there as been much valk af

2 punter expec 2 forune

the odge ae supposed 10 Se for everyone who plays. Maybe a Serer comparison swowid be the kind of canine ic tired by WC, Fisk in one of ie

wa dealing Wackiock when he sam approach

the

chy = naive, would-be gambler Nor the ay T play i," Fields replied

Clever money

The Common Market t0 spend rnore than £893 rion the yea. Not on cresting js, Not on proovoting human egies eco be Spent on storing ts food Labour Pary policy was clearly decided in 198! on 2 card vote — fo withdraw from the EEC. A Sage ine ina general document in 1983 changed ths — winovt Sebate — to" retaining the option f withdrawal Bur now. could we possbly svthdrawe when our money" being So wisely apd procucuvely spent”

Rest period for Plastic Baggers

The competion of the selection

process ak Greenwich, apd the Tooming. prospect of 4 General Eneetion may have Srowght te

porary respite for the reste fourseys of the somatic horde a teould be Labour MPs Traveling countess sles hopelully, with decreasing chasces of actualy aeiving 13 \Westminncr tes band of une fo bring 8 haady sock of thee Exp caer Bigs in hopes of iieresting.someane Many have adopted chameleon-like quali fr blending imperceptivey. in fohat they fos! are the prvaii 3 ocal selection meetin ih aiferent Tine ‘m8 singe

The sume “Plstic-bagger can bee a witch unter ia South Wales, 2 devolutomst sn Seotlund, and 3 fadical inlet wing Londen CLs ‘The more winzable the seat, Th rare principles they will ietson togeab i

With “resslestion now largely completed, the "close season now beztn, with only Teak by lectins elfering possible open ings for the ubplaced Plat haggers,

Some will now look elsewhere foe advancement, and fulltime tion positions beckon. A few of these uawanted politicians, may sly hevome unloved oficial thers may not even make the] Short

‘Watch ost! Pawti-bagae could be headiog for sour union]

Labour Briefing Feb 11-24 1987 page 9

Labour Party

A different kind of PPC Waiting for the NEC

Qn December t4ih last year Streatham Labour Party

selected Anna Tapsell by an ‘overwhelming majority to be

{do admire the uncom- are the best source of local news promising, discomforting at and required reading also By the tude of the Black Section. jobless... which is pretty well Instturlonal racism in this Party everyone bere?

By Anna Tapsell

an advice line for the elderly

is‘ppe. caught in the freeze, listen- Win''noe be exorcised ‘without "Do they really think that in

‘Annu isa focal activist and ing, to women’s views On Fainand don't sceany of those Lambth where sx lack som ts been 9 Labour Party violence, street Fighting, dominant white male figures fades are soreharged councils tember for 35 ears. The transport Stepping aside voluntarily ‘fe could easily renege on a com endorsed by the NEC because gape fascination m watching did jus that, tothe everlasting One of those extragalactic {ie Selection Conference was Surprising variety of comrades credit, by deciding 10 exclude beings from the Region warhed he with the Sacilae‘on ther commitment whte'men from the patlamen: me, just prior @ ibe selon SF Sicatham's {o Black Sections, ia particular tary selection panel. (Are you conference. that Sireatham teh fave held delegate rights Socie amaring syratiom 8) cer. reading me Roy? Doesthecipp- CLP would be “a laughing

jorethat i€1 "How, 1 wonder, does the Party", if persisted in bolding Gorsed per NEC ataljse whae has occurred an unconstitional selection.

Tmake a meni ever become an

wewy9 Wor :OLORE

pies Sonage at" Walworth Road Til inStreathans? Are he) veally so. Having explained to her that

There are beer things 10 duc Dens Sancta do, like taking up neglected packed public im housing estates, providing

Foxhunter (ee.

Public Meeting Fighting racism

unseated oot soe

Campaigning for

they really unaware that "That seriously, remains my The Voice and Canboean Times view Anna Tapsel!

Fun games for natural justice

‘The NEC's decision to endorse Ronnie Campbell as By Dave Carter Soci

parliamentary candidate 4, es fabian for Blyth Valley should be Middlesborough CLP Monday 16th February

See oe Reto es = Lambeth Town Hall z: ; z can tiv eneral Eléction in order to The tional paying expenses for Campbell has @ fine record help the SDP's chances of ‘Couibaee e By Mandy Moore defendants and

Tottenham CLP resentatives and agreed ensuring proper notice

and procedural information

82 foeal councilor and NUM winning vist and will make The tesignation from the feshing ‘change from. the ny of Ryman and his fox-hunting Barvster' John agent Peter Mortals will not

Committee is now up and runing.

ree Sle Pony. scavets, Mor 1 had its first meeting on ‘Ryman has bitterly opposed ‘was convicted of elec- Haringey Council February Sth and there will is given to defendants;

campos otctan "an hs aa aud afte the Saber ‘Ati Scat pba! oar chenaba i spcement tha the NCC; fcosecer, Tho NEC enquiry 1874 clecton when fiyman : os Ane pgaet cre where appropriate, - would fam could find npevidence of narrowly defeated the ate Es. | President, National | [at Iravel to the place concerned

‘outstanding cases to be dealt with from St Helen's,

Ryman’s wild allegations die Milne. Meanwhile the Bar| Union of Mineworkers rather than everyone having

Shout the composition of the Council and‘Seatiand Yard's ‘ome 10 London; GLP. fiyman’s fontacion ore Serious: Crane Saud ore tr: Tony Benn MP os ia dccrd eve ee Sinsurprising given that he has vestigating compints against Eric Heffer WP ‘Coventry, Pept eg ‘ot Been sen in the consti iman ‘by fis own legal | Gul Zarina Khan, LP Sei and outs Was tho services the Committee Grete “Tony Campbell. chair of Back Sections Moves were made by one

‘He recenily snnounced that Greniington Young Socialists. | Dennis Skinner MP | member of the Committee to be davolved ia prosecuting he has become “bored with is being promoted in the locel Torce us to keep everything cases.

Broadwater Farm

the tivity of politics.” bess since hohas announced | (Ute secret and not “go (0 the ‘Alan Haddon was elected

Ryman now appears to be he will set up 2 group to con: efence Campaign press” or == “caucus”. Chair by 7 votes to 3 (1

beck-trecking on his threat to test May's local elections. His Labour Women’s member was absent), Not a

However, some of us ign his seat and force an claim that local councilors are

objected to this and of

surprising result!

inmedite bralwon he ling ojpmnis Democase | Acton Committee | Shed ots ame

Dob ae epee pee tee toe a

(hould also’ tote the lage grested with astonishment by Admission: Snenforeabie we ill be meeting on the "sav.otl" poncion tor whien Ronni Campbet’s agent om | €1 umber of gs nea Twecsday on the mou all retiring MPs qualify. Hence Landies. who is a Nor $500 eneenged) decisions were made justice and fairness”. These with the next meeting on Ris more Maly deci toon thumbetiand ‘county Concerning the procedure included: March Sth.

‘3s an Independent at’ the Councilor.

Youth Briefing

A school student’s view: The attack on sex aducation

Recently the Tories have shown great concern for the By Judith Paton moral welfare of young peo-

= and lesbians and "The azurude' of the Labour

the con:

ple and, in particular, young healeh and women However, some Councils and the Torcis leadership has been to disown

‘Over ihe past few years we schools are now making effors protect the ‘more progressive Councils haye had to defend Ourselves to change this way of teaching, family? Jp have been iberaicing

s because retormists do ny as Hs continuation aot want to change the basic waion of a siructure of society by chalk

sovialised ing the family, and in this they

2eains their concern and They are trying to promote 2 The pati fagainst the concern shown by more positive attitude towards impo Gillick and Powel in th lesbians and gays capi fempis to uadermine dur The right Wing response to es the Feprod And those of all women this, theough “Parents” Rights ine labour for

‘Sex education, as well as the Groups", has been vicious. We ito the norms of 2

Fight of doctors to prescribe ave sceh these artups act in Society he Tory Party Contraception. for" young Haringey. when thes tied to Homasewvality is areal a ‘There is no organised body o women, thas been gravely a= ban copics of “lenny lives with ative for many peo sctiool students 10 resist the at Fected, Teachers are’ worried EricandMaria"a book abou family. and therefo facks on sex education and it is about breaking the law by a young si liviag with her capitalism. No wonde difficult for voung people {caching about contraception, father and his male lover Faria are nor kcen for ito be with radial ideas, particularly ind arcconcemned about geting Attacks on sex education are talked about in schools? ‘round sexuality, to pet heard Eomplains, from. parents, part of a” wider campaign The Kinnockwe response to school

Young women in schools were against all Torms of sexuality allthis has been to pov ‘The sroups which have been

and are defending sex slucation

‘ery badly afected by the High outside macriage. We have'seen at Cecil Parkins ‘and positive images of lesbians

Court's judgement” onthe racist Enoch Powell try to push Archer, sh Gillick case bill rough Parliament which hypocites ‘and gay men have been the 50 "The ssllabus for sex eduea- would have’ severely limited highlighting the di talled “loony lft” Councils, ion is very much at the dice. Yeproductive vighes for women various Tory MPs we ignore the the Positive images Campaign,

PHOTO: Stephane Caanon! eport)

ion of individual schools. Ia ° — including both ferry and real issue — attacks on young fp own experience, iis based abortion rights. It would acwual-- people's and lesbians’ and gay

‘Op hetcroscuual Inircourse and Wy have given legal rights 10 men's sexualiey

how his feads to babies. Ia the embryos. Tr implies that if Jeffrey Ar- their struggle and demand that

implistic teaching. of junior We have also seen, more cher Kept clear of the tabloids the reformists make good sex

Schools, he heterosexual couple recently, the massive’ media and Cec Parkinson Knew more education in schools realty

‘ere alvays married ‘Sampaign against lesbians and about contrac Shen they come to power PEs Spee :

see ee ae:

ae

Labour Briefing Feb 11-24 1987 page 10

International Briefing

Red and Green

Sizewell decision announced:

PWR

in every back ya

Sizewell “4

Perdition: fact or fiction?

A show-trial is shaping up. By Andrew Hornung ‘The accusers: the Board © ———————— of Deputies of British Jewry, What 1s “Perdition” about? Zionist organisations, and OF cour, a we Raven born their friendly historians. allowed t0 ee ion stage, OF 10 fhe mccureds Jim Allen, "24. any of the various drafts

which appear to be circulating socialist playwright and Sinong interested partis, 8e

author of the play have to cely on press reports 10

“Perdition”. form any idea of the play Rape te qnestion relatively small growp of

forced the Royal Court io gover Kastner

Without either a text or a performance is pretty hard to fake side ia. relation to any

particular allegation. The best Gne can do i to look st the Underlying issues.

Did some Hungarian Zionists do a deal with the Nazis? The lansner is clearly “yex". Did Some Zionists put bulking the Jewish settlement in Palestine before ‘Saving the. lives of European Jews? Again, the evidence points 108. "yes" anvmer, Were. many Zionists

pasive in relation 10 growing Bnti-semitisen, believing that 3 ould not be fough? Again, the painful answer must be "yes"

‘Allen fs quoted by: Time Out

Let's be clear: only a fascist could argue that Nazi Germany as nol responsible for the death of six milion Jews, But this overwhelming historic fact Goes not exempt other movements and forces — Zioaism, Stalmism, Brtish and American imperialism — from a

critical appras these horrific events

‘One Final point: those loudest in claiming teat Jim Allen is trying to minimise Nazi responsibilty for the Holocasst

are generally those closest tothe Board of Deputies of British Jesty ‘sho have consistently done their best to sabotage ‘mobilisations against fascism in London Polytechnic.

rd?

After all the years of waiting, the Sizewell enquiry has finally come up with the answer the Tories wanted all along.

The CEGB now has the go-shead to build a pressurised water reactor (PWR) power plant at Sizewell and to develop @ programme of PWRs at other sites around the country.

‘Now more than ever we need to gat the message

‘Nuclear power presents unacceptable risks to workers fnd the public ake, through the production of radioactive icles waste, the transportation of dangerous naclese materials, the day-to Gay rolese into the ‘environment of radioactive loments, and the risk of Serious accident

‘@ Although the chances of 3 Chemobyi-type accident occurring are very sim, the Consequences “of such an ‘event are so devastating that it is grossly inesponsible 10

risking i the event of a. serious accident at” “Sizewel

thousands would die and hundreds of "squate ‘miles of land (some densely populated) would be rendered Uninhabitable

‘®Even leaving aside tho safety issue, the | CEGB’s Sconemic case for the

By Andy Porter SERA

Sizewell PWR ts seriously flawed end depends on high estimates of the future cost of ‘coal and all

in the past, despite claims to the contrary, nuclear power hes never produced electicity 38 cheaply as modern coal fired plants.

‘A ‘rational energy _polley would, in any case, wliminat the need for an increase. In ‘lectrielty ‘generating Capacity. A radieal socialist ‘eneray policy would:

‘incorporate ‘nergy conservation and efficiency

‘allow

cuting ‘would make nuclear power an inelevanee

Friends of the Earth organised “a lobby of parliament on February 4th, Socialists must support such fevente and attend in. large umbers

‘END has announced that it is planning @ mass. sit-down Sgainst the Sizewall PWR outside “the House of Commons on May 15th.

For further details Frionds of the arth, 01-837 0731: SERA, 07:439 3729,

END Peace Convention:

Two thousand have had biter experi

delegates from all over promises on detence in Spain, the world are expected Fiance" Greses and to attend the sixth Scandanavia

European Nuclear _ They will norsee Kini

mament ope Convention to be held in Nato. Sos ively debate can

Coventry from July be expected! 15th to 19th. Previous conventions

By Dave Spencer Coventry Labour Briefing str ei Convenor, END International Lisison Convention Loca Committee chose Briin Convention Local this year because of the —_ coming British General oe Election and its probable _,,Masv '2,CNO. will went to focus on the issue of oush the Gorbachov proposais defence from Rojiavie They wit port Undoubtedly, many in CN tolibetastion nha USSA a think current’ Labour Party “a hopeful sion Gofencs poly is mervelous. "The Independent Peace nd want the movement %0 Movements, of Eastern faly “ureriieaty" round. for Europe, however, have hed Kimock.“On the other hand, great" infuence’ on past many visitors trom Europe Conventions and will daubt

South Afr, Phuippines, the ‘South Pacific have all boen discussed with representatives of the national European activists will expe the jssue of Northern tela to be raised at 2 convention in Britain and we can only hope it wil not be ducked,

Links between the struggle for peace and antisexist 2nd onteracist struggles have

the past. in

in Britain, discuss

fests workshops, events, ft is 3 golden Opportunity to share experiences with _ peace activists and socialists from all ‘Any groups. or individuals mterested in taking part shoud contact Martin Butcher, CND Offices, 22°24 Underwood St, London N1 736. 101-250 4010)

Open house for activists!

ae

Labour Briefing Feb‘ti-24:1987 page td.

i International

Using the past — to shape the future

Another Bloody Sunday and refleted very badly on - recipe foc continsed’ partition responsive to British presure, state’ in the, 6 counties, and Commemoration has ‘xc epomibe frien.” By Cllr Richard Sed Bash mrs and but Jes ied’ at Uke atlenly' supposing the parece clidarny with the cause Of essum Political involvement Prospart of having to ope with" gapaiions of nauonastf in

id gone. Ieands gute clearly, took CUCM Garren Fhageraid 1s a great challenge from Sinn Faia. tis those’ areas" where. they ate

Before’ the demonstration, (0 he alls You mst ume uth Bld Sanday aly defined nostalgia asa way of can't behave decently towards es sree ier ® The march and rally

hnave been ta an,

But theresa way of sing the past thit makes ia livia Force fir the here and now. For seliviss engaged in the tedious battle against an apparently

city as Gutining «socialist WAurawal and of the Ira Saturday February 28th ee ritain.for_self- determination ay Goes

Bar there stil emains the need for an organisation like the LCI which works to build broadly

Tisiening 10 the son of someone killed “on “Bloody Sinday reading a message from

The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London

class — the Labour Party

lt the more reason co make ao ‘Scctarian demancl at

sure such commemorations are

Wheelchair accessible, signer ‘svalable

rally Counties will not be the main Don't worry,” be trish unity until the Irish

by nid.ccaae the troops" are hardly ‘of Southern policy ‘we in Dublin do some indication that they wish agtgeer eS pu The sirugele of those who are 1 3 Sats beh b= - = <—— . Ring 01 854 8888, ext.

toiecame of Republicaaism in towards" the north, "and eto do.s0." Ireland parila

Anglo-lesh Agreement whic

‘and dying. in Ireland 2086 for further details

should not be used by groups on

Yet we know from experes

ihe British left ax an excise €9 The Labour Party isfacingan APBI-Insh. Agresmest that 3 Labour government iifelevant factional fon this year ‘with & policy ie 4 wrich “accepts this lil es, Some of thescenes on Ireland whichis 12 Loyalist bel See sould. find self “once

‘a Charhe Hauzhey is much less Cmiboiled in governing x police

inthe Ciy Hall weredisgraceful fundamentally flawed by its :

Trade union upsurge in Namibia

emergence of (rade union activity in Namil

Agree

of mass rallies in support of SWAPO, "including one OF 25.000 (of a population of 1.5 lion), said to be the largest in Lnderlsine this upsurge in” Fecemt Namibian history

This follows a period in 2°" the "National “Union of igh "gute uring Estevan z which the labour movement Namibian Workers (NUNW), oy PuNain, Gulag Febuary 3 had been Forced ho, inspicet by the succes of 30 # 1 Hope thas be ol be tniderground after the arrest COSATG, have teen TK, SPEAK on abou A on terrorism charges of instrumental in the — Glearly vital’ that the Britis § trade union leaders in {980, establishment of the unions, labour movement extends Es

Tn 1972 Namibian unions The NUNW was sctup bythe Solial and materia solidarity

SWAPO Department of Labour SONswipan trade Unione

‘occupying South African th and iis Aay unions wishing to make

forces following mass Saoral Organiser. Ben chess contacts ‘should ae i aoa ME intss Uileng, isa fecentlyselased (ouch withthe Namibia Support

Dartiipation in & general Jongsering SWAPO pesoner Cosmninee PO Bar ie

strike fp Robben Island. He is also 2 [ame nivs, : "The loving months of 1986 General Secretary of the MUN

saw the nunch the Namibian

Ee eu ch Support the Sandinistas!

were smashed by the

‘over pay and conditions. Uulenge stated “the workers A

‘Ai the same time workers’ struggle forthe advancement of Skis ii committee Irom alimont every their interests asa sls can only ar nite By Jeremy sre tia Seon ofa Pee mine in Namibia founded the be par and parcel of our wider Goveroment is now facing BY Jeremy Paton ng"ste wader are now Mineworkers Union of Namibia antr<olanial national Iiberatin real problems Though the Contras enjoy smengst the top wage (MUN). Consolidated Diamond strupale." That was the message to 2 no significant support, their ®arMers. Mina’ “SOth Anniversary Trade union activity in meetng of tho Brefing Youth murderous attacks are For the majority of the "celebrations" Were Namibia has gone hand in hand Commision trom 3 Comrade damaging the economy. Nicaraguan "working class unanimously boycotted." by with an. upturn in. potiical fecently returned trom two Prices. in the Wee, and living standards have dacined Weotes Thobuitations 1966 saws sch years" Control America especiaty the ilegal, market since the Revolution of 79.

The FSLN strategy is based fon. "economic. collaboration swith “a. politically powerless Capitalist” class

The votecatcher’s debacle rer Ste

Rau, the seif-aiyled “vote. | ‘isruption

Reagan, Star_Wars. and sgothe prospect of “red-green,

“The West German elections, rEreEr Reagan. Siar Wars and sno the prospect ofa sed-ereen catcher", suffered a personal | The Nicaraguan working ‘ville returning Chances DY Géater Misnerep ae Se ae ne the alk of the Gehacle ‘on January 28th and | class is relatively smal The : Sapopular. Kohl's notorious newspaper Kohl's Conservative-Liberal Fe oloousAEESPEPT chy wing of the MAS how feted 1. his | population is stl coalition to power, surprse moderation do Gorkachor’ and Goebbels and party weal on the offense. Bfemiership im Northing: | predominantly. peasant and in domestic es ‘Stfalia The signs ae that hs | ven'n the ees most famitas may of those who saw (or Toprenise legislation. Bis talk of | “concentration Johannes Rau, choven as tt S\CCsor will” be Oskar | coma. both workers. and wanted to see) the country in "The combuned total of bot caps in East Germany, candidate for tHE Sfopraine, "the closest | small traders. “Any. move the grip of a tide of wings of the government fell designed to polish his image on chancelorship, | proseeded valent the SPD has toa | agat henght, tuned out tobevotc rule out any collaboration with SaUN=lE against private property and conservatism and economic while the combused vote of the the Fight, turned out to be vote % = Tony Bena, who has publicly | the legal market. would complacency. Toft — the SPD and the Greens fers. {he Greens and to bury ‘resly- Gutstioned” West Germany's | encounter” resistance “from rose to its highest point adopted radial conference membership of NATO. and. ie | many of those whore support For, contrary to all 5.3%) for fifteen years. the Coalition resolutions “under. @ pile of prepared to. work with the | ‘5 essential for the Rovoloton predictions, they brought a Social democrats fost” seven pois ee et oe Nonetheless, popular Shift to the lett seats, while the” Greens Thecentreright coalition aio POSS The right, however, is | support. for the Sandivstas inceaed” the parfamenary tow ground ow scalony tae : walt setae seine down | Sortinuesn\'» high evel Conser 8536y share ofthe pl. ee a eee Target Raw's predesesor, "Hans: | complaints about the The Consevative Christan Even a relatively stable the ‘Rhine by giant chemical reclaimed target of a Joachim. Vogel, 10 challenge | sconomy.ry

Democrats ow 21 seats and economic "situation — vero plants majority forthe SPD alone wax Lafontaine “for the party | "The government's defiance Suifered their lovest‘share of inflaion and.” stagnant "The gains scored by the So. glaringly unrealistic’ that leadership’ when the preseat | of American bullying is highly ihe vote (44.36 since 1949. unemployment Tigures — did Greens ‘were to be expeced traditional’ SPD supporters shai. Willy Brand, retires next | popular. Most people believe 2 ‘Theierighwing thetorc and in aot benei the government. Under thew ctcumances. But concluded that Rau was not YE US" invasion “could. be

acusn thet "of Bavarian West “German ‘poliics have what about the SPD? Not 30 interested in replacing the Kobi The contest between these | defeated Fas rranatiose! Strut’ always been dominated’ by long ag0 won convincing government, The inevitable twoisgoingtobemarethanone | The high level of

drove a large porlion of the forelampolicy issues, and the overall majorities in the Key at a scrics of severe between different personalities, | poltcisation of the people Is middiecals eleerorate into. the majority’ s€ Gecnians are ‘of Northehine. Westfalia ‘in local and regional will bean all-out struggle for | impressive. About one in five arms of the liberal FDP Strongly suspicious of the nes ‘Of the elections, brought about by the soul of the party on all the | Nicaraguans is involved in ono Stands fora critical digance Cold War and committed 10 Saarland, and was riding high in defections to the Greens and Key issues of foreign, defence, | of the mass organisations from Reaganism and peaceful relations with the East. — the opinion polls. Only a year abstentions. social and economic policy Sled to the Sendinsta Front.

ae

Labour Briefing Feb 11-24 1987 page 12

LEEDS LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONFERENCE:

“Limp performance tame poodle’”’ al LU

The 1987 __tocal =

government conference in BY Steven Cowan Hattersley don't actually

Leeds accurately revealed want to set up radical and

the basic problems facing _ John Prescott assured us alternative centres of power

cota ieee ay pe Te Labor Pany. Song

gear ‘before a general « sategies that 300,000 “real regional government docs election. jobs" in two years would be education committee imply a weakening of the | The leadership are not the target. These, hetold.us, described to me as a limp centre prepared or able to lean would arise from co- performance from a tame John _Austin-Walker,

from the radical socialist o¢dinated initiatives at local poodle. The thorough-going leader of | Greenwich,

strategies that have been the jevel autiousnes and atlacked the leadership for

hallmark of the best of |" Roy Hattersley flatly conservatism of the Kinnock dragging its fect on Labour local government in contradicted this a day later Cunningham - Radice - supporting —_ratecapped

protecting jobs and services, he said. He demanded a clear commitment that h Surcharges will be lifted on group and the Tribune to ans — must be all disqualified councillors

Behind the exhortations

group led by Prescott are suppor Surfacing 10 wreck local Such structures offer a for unity in the period government strategy real possibility for creating a before an election lies the ‘On education — vehi ugh wh shambles of there not being | largest element in local initiatives cha of an agreed policy or strategy government spending — those of the metropolitan for the restructuring of local most delegates came to counties can be pursued. government Leeds to flesh out the The 2 CLPs should make

as water, police fone northern chair of an and economic development

re included.

pressures, In this way the political differences within the leadership between th Hattersley Solidarity"” from police to water. hes

é 3

Published by Labour Briefing, 26 Crofton Rosd, London SES. Printed by MPS TUI, Acre Lane! London SW2.

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PHOTO: John Chapman