Labour Briefing no. 41

Labour Briefing (national paper) · 8 April 1987 · 12 pages

Below is the text of the scan as read by machine (OCR), uncorrected, so that it can be searched. Expect misreadings and columns run together. The scan is the authority: read it before quoting.

Signed in this issue: Jim Niblock (p. 2); Madhay Patil (p. 3); Peter Bowing (p. 9); Iain Bruce (p. 10); Ros Young (p. 10); Geoffrey Bell (p. 11)

Page 1

Stop this man before he loses Labour the election!

INSIDE

@ Education feature

@ Black Sections: no witch-hunt!

@ The Labour Party & Defence:

no Cruise! @ Briefing

Conference highlights

KAMIKAZE KINNOCK!

Can you believe it? Labour’s leaders are blundering from one own goal to another.

@The Hewitt letter echoed the gutter press’s attacks on “loony left” Councils and lesbians and gay men, despite clear Conference policy supporting their rights.

@0On Cruise, Kinnock announced Labour would keep them while the superpowers are negoti in Geneva, despite clear Conference policy for unilateral disarmament.

@The NEC's racist attack on Black Sections and Black PPCs makes a mockery of the Party’s formal commitment to antiracism and defence of Black people’s rights.

@Kinnock’s ridiculous US trip a 28 minute audience with Chief Imperialist Warmonger Reagan was a political and media fiasco.

@Hattersley has revealed that Labour will delay introducing a statutory minimum wage for up to 2 years, despite Conference policy for its speedy implementation.

In just 6 weeks, the leadership has alienated trade unionists, Black people, peace camners, and lesbians and gays. All in a frantic id to be more patriotic than the Tories and more moderate than the Alliance.

After eight years of Tory destruction Labour should be riding high in the opinion polls and ready to form a government. Instead, after 3% years of Kinnock’s leadership, Labour is no higher in the opiniion polls than when he took over. And no nearer forming a government.

The bankrupt policies of the Labour leadership threaten another four years of Tory rule. The left cannot and should not stay silent any longer. It is not too late to turn the tide. But only if Labour clearly presents a radical socialist alternative will it have

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Labour Briefing No. 41 Apr 81h 2151 7987 page 2

Home News

The facts behind the frame-up

‘The uprising on Broadwater Farm is once again in the news.

"The tabloids failed to attend the trial of three juveniles and three youths charged with the murder of PC ‘Blakelock except to report the _ Prosecution ‘opening; and, in the case of the Sun, declare Winston Silcott guilty before the case hhad been heard...

‘Three months Jater, the press corps reappeared at the

By Broadwater Farm Defence Campaign

Old Bailey to fear the sentences. Pages of reports followed the murder trial, including exclusive" stories about the uprising. The Daily Star even pretended t0.—_have photographs of PC Blakelock’s death (on the ‘wrong part of the estate) and enhanced this with 2 grotesque comic strip

FIGHT BIGOTRY! FIGHT RACISM !

NATIONAL

‘What the tabloids failed to feport was ihe evidence heard in ‘court on which the Judge had fled that the three juveniles be ‘sequitted. of murder and on ‘euch the jury found Mark Braithwaite, Engin Raghip and Winston Silcott guilty. Even the “quality” press were quick 10 divert attention from the case itself tothe rules governing bal

The facts of the trial must become Known and widely publicised. The lack of evidence ‘Against three youths sentenced to life is starting. Without the State's vital ced to find scapegoats for-the death of a policeman (recast asthe exercise ‘Of justice by the racist media), these three young: men would Surely have Been acquitted

The police investigation that Jed to the murder trial, and an ‘overall 157 people charged with public order and other offences ‘eas unique. About 375 people tere artesied and commonly held incommunicado during a violent police campaign that included smashing down doors and threatening people with Tirearms and does

‘The trials are revealing more and more evidence of severe police malpractice, including forture, "while detainees. were Questioned. Affray and riot tals are scheduled to co for at Feast the next ni ‘oaths.

“The murder trial evidence shared the characteristics of the trials overal!:

SA lack of eve witness evidence.

‘One ‘witness was called against one of the juveniles. Bat the witness admitted under cross examination 10 have licd at very stage of police questioning fo save his" own shin. He fevealed. that’ the police, in ferurn for him siving evidence inthe murder {fialy were [ocecting him, had given him @ flat rent free, had got him to jobs and had given him money {live on

‘Although playing _a_more serious part in the uprising than many of those charged with fray, this “witness” had only

received a £200 fine,

“The prosecution were forced to drop the case against the 14 Year old juvenile ‘e There was no description of lame defendant, from civilian oF Police witnesses, such 2s could facatify them us even. being, present at the uprising. f@Nor were there any photographs, from over 1,000 Official phoios taken, identifying "any of the defendants as being preseat. ‘There was 0 foreasic ‘evidence, sich as shoeprinis, bloodstains or any other Scientific evidence inking. any of the defendants with marder of PC Blakelock or with being at the uprising

The cases Of the other two juveniles were thrown out because the police had flagrantly broken the law in the manner and length of their ‘etention and in the way in ‘which they were questioned,

The police method of conducting an “investigation

encourage and. these “confessions” were the only evidence” against the three youths found euity

Mark Braithwaite, interviewed for 10: hours in an 18 hour period “confessed” 10 bang on the Farm, throwing stones and iting a policeman. tbat not PC Biakelock. He said the “confessions” were made a5 2. result of threats, Slauscrophobia, lack of seep, hunger. being eld incommunicado and oppressive ‘Questioning,

Engin Raghip, interrogated for over 14 hours, purported to hhave signed “confessions” after they were read to him, because hei literate. In. these he emitted throwing stones, Pushing over a burning car and ‘Witnessing the attack on PC Blakelock, trying to get close ‘enough to Kick of hit Rim, His Sefence was that “confessions” ‘were made under police pressure ded suggestion. He presented {Bibi evidence to show he as ‘ot present at the attack on PC Blakclock.

Winston Silcott, interviewed that the weapons used against for 2/5 hours and, like the Blakelock had gone. Winston others, without a’ solicitor Sileott's defence was that he is

Present, denied being involved. innocent and. there isn The police claim that his evidence against im conduct, actions and ~The thiee-are 10 appeal. The emeanoue together with ‘his (lack of evidence presented in assertions could be interpreted the murder trial must become as accepting the police more widely Known. The Sllcgation that he was the attack Broadwater Farm. Defence Fingleader Campaign. appeals. to. you to ‘These assertions included help sway public opinion behind “that noone would give the demand for the release: of

Gridence against” him, thal the three youths wrongly convicted. police couldn't keep him away Contact the Defence Campaigi from potential witnesses, und on OL-885-3382,

Viraj Mendis will stay!

(On hearing that Viraj Mendis had been appainted Immigration Of ficer for Manchester City Council, Home Otfice Minster David Waddington stepped up his vitnolic attacks

Waddington called the appointment "an insult 10 the people of Manchester'" and added “'when you think of all the people who live in Manchester today wha could do that job

Enraged over Vira's continued resistance to his threatened deportation to Sri Lanka where he would face certain persecution ‘and possible death, the Tory government and their layal aes in Fleet Street have pulled out all the stops to force Viral from the Church in Hulme, Manchester, where he has been in sanctusty since December 20th

"A few days after Waddington’s outbursts, the Sun attacked Manchester City Council for ‘being. “loonies... running. the asylum’: the Dally Express editorial cried "Mendis rhust go

‘As night follows day, these racist outpourmgs resulted in foscist attacks on the church and campaign supporters. A campaign member was stabbed with a ten inch knife when an armed man, Durst into the church on March Sth. The follawing day another supporter was followed home by 3 masked men who broke into her house, beat her around the head, drew swastikas on the doors and carved a swastika on her hand with 2 razor blade.

‘These sttacks are just some of many whipned up by David Wed: ington and Fleet Street's gutter press. The Vira] Mendis Defence Campaign has mobilised successfuly to resist them — 10 were, moblised 10 defend the church at a tew hours natice,

Vira} has said: “the intensity of my struggle against deportation has now created 2 poltical and physical focus for the struggle against racism... As the elections get closer, the Tory government Is increasing the attack on black people... Now more than ever 3 strong political force is needed to put pressure on all politcal par ties 10 tum back this tide of racism,”

“The Conference on Apri 11/12th will be# focus for this, and will begin @ national response to the deportations, Transport feavt London on Friday April 10th. Tickets and. further details, from (07-837. 7688, BCM Box 5809, London WCIN 34x,

Gary Clapton, Vira} Mendis Defence Campaign, London Support Group

Scottish Labour Briefing

Labour movement leaders face the test

The Caterpillar occupation began in January after the company anounced it had changed its mind about investment in the plant, and were instead going to close it, with the direct loss of 1,221 jobs.

‘The occupation came hard the heels of the Guinness conglomerate's decision 10 close its recently acquired Distiters Botding Plant in

Stepps with the direct loss 0 450 jobs.

‘A few weeks later another conglomerate, Dalgety,

which 5 months previously had bought the Golden Wonder group from Hanson, announced they were closing the Scottish plant at Broxburn, West Lothian, with the direct loss of 340 jobs.

All three plants are modern, high-tech and profitable. All three will be stripped of equipment and closed

The stand taken by the Cater pillar workers could have forged Finks with these other plants tm 3 ‘common struggle, if the Trade Union and Labour Party leaders had’ ‘wished, They. called a meeting of 350 shop stewards in Glasgow on February sth 0 discuss. solidarity within the Caterpillar workers — but no ‘such lead was given, Financial Support and "a. completely ‘seless lobby of parliament, was

By Jim Niblock sgow Central CLP

all the leadership ofthe Sconish labour movement, including the Euro-Communists, had 10 offer.

Despite this the Caterpillar workers continued their occups ion and. established contacts with the other European Cat pillar plants who offered further Financial assistance, com mitments not to handle blacked ‘goods and solidarity action if the company tried f0 evict the workers

‘Meanwhile the management, ‘operating from a suite on the eighth floor of Glasgow Hospitality tan, were kept busy sending. threatening. leters 10 the workers.

‘AL the Scoctish Labour Party sonfereace in March Rob: ‘Cook MP, teferring t0 the Dalgety outfit, said, “iris unas. ceptable that'a company. can Duy over a plant one month and lose ita few months fer with no fegard to the interests of ‘workers who have beer with the ‘company for over 20 years."

‘Yes, indeed, but the Labour Party, with a huge majority of MP% in Scotland, have seen this happen time aed again over the last few years and have been powerless to prevent it

The concentrations. of in dustry and capital in the South East of England, and the drift towards mass uncmployment ia ‘most other fegions of Beuain affects large areas of England

‘and certainly more people

than it docs in Scotland. Paradoxically. it also increases the massive social problems ie Condon, with overcrowding in flating land prices, and the consequent effects on hovse cos ‘and. ground renis pushing manufacturing industry’ o the capital: but itis the Seostish labour movement which must take the lead Ih order to reverse this trend, political solutions ate required, ‘hich radically alter the existing Balance of power. Successive Labour governments have been, and will remain, totally ineftec tive in challenging this underls ing Lend. Vartogs regional aid feconomis and pot “The defiant’ stand taken by Caterpillar workers deserved 4 ‘more Serious response than that given by STUC, Labour Party land Communist Party leaders ‘Without a clear politcal lead the occupation will” remain fsolated and” will crumble despite 2 good shop stewards Sommitice and “massive sym pany. Polinical action is Te Quired to mobilise thie support into concrete solidarity work ‘Over the last few ears, trade tunion leaders have often said workers who don't fight for their jobs and accept increased redundancy, payments and the Tike, are being bought off with fools" gold, But at the start of the occupation, 94% of Catcr pillar workers Voted to fight! Lronicaly, it will be the job of siomy Aili, one time leader of the UCS work-in and now full time official of the AUEW it ‘Scoiland. to fell the caterpillar Srorkers that the Union ca

Jonge: support the occupation in fight of a. court decision ‘against it, and it should be end: cd. For Allie, a leading Euro. ‘Communist, this must be an all time low

‘Caterpillar workers haven't given up the fight for their jobs, Dur the combination of manage. ‘ment, legal, media and political pressure will probably swing the Balance against them when their union also brings ‘pressure 10 fend the oocupation. The Cater pillar workers: Know all about Fook” ‘gold. The surrounding areas are littered with derelict factory sites and mine works There's no chance here of tak ing the money and starting another job: only longterm ‘unemployment and demoralisation.

The Labour Party will pay a heavy price if this demoralisa tion contiaues. With 42 out of the 71 Scottish seats the Labour Panty has the power and legitimacy to develop ‘an alter hative fo Thatcher way beyond the scope of the GLC oF left ‘councils of a few years ago, Bul they reuse to exercise "this power and leave workers sus: ‘ling against soemployment Kolated, and the unemployed 10 the ravages of deteriorating ser vices and cuts

‘On. Friday March 20h the Distillers Black -& White plant closed. The company offered 12 Seeks extra severance pay if the fundowa went “smoothly” Workers let with cheques rang. ing from £3,000 10 £8,000 — not much compared 10 the hand: ‘Outs given 10 sacked Guinness ‘executives or the £25m slush and involved in the Guinness

takeover of Distillers The workers will egjevt this

The promise of no redundan- road only when an adequate cies given by Saunders at the political lead is given by the fime of the bid for Distillers labour movement. Meanwhile a

may seem like a secondary mat- Guinness spokesperson sa ter in Tight of she subsequent “the rundown has gone very revelations of corruption and well.”

insider dealings, but not forthe The workers at Black & White

300 women who worked at the had reluctantly followed the plant, many of them the only same course as the Golden

trage-carners within the family, Wonder planta Tew weeks

They aresick and angry al the earlier, while the vole 19. co closure. They” would have nue the Caterpiliar occupation fought; they will sil ght when had reduced to a wafer thin ma a lead is piven. But the cost of jority of 6,368 Tor and. 362 misieadership i “fools” gold. against

Free the Panther appeal

[As most people know by now, the Caterpillar workforce accu ing thei Factory at Uddingston have donated the tractor The Pink Panther 1o Scottish War on Want.

‘Scottish War On Want had made arrangements 1o ship the irae tor out to Nicaragia for the construction of roads, health centres sand rural schools in the most underdeveloped parts of the countty

(Caterpillar have taken legal action to prevent movement Of the teactor. The Pink Panther therelore remains in George Square, Glasgow, courtesy of Glasgow District Couneil, as a very publi testament to a mean-spirited American multinational

‘Scottish War On Want is now in urgent need of funds to-6ffset legal costs, Please help us to Free the Pancher. Any funds raised in excess of legal costs will go to the Caterpillar J.0.C.

Janie Buchan, MEP, Glasgow

Ken Fagan, President, COSLA

David Hayman, Actor/director

Mark Lazarowice, Leader, Edinburgh Distrir Council

George Leslie, Vice-chair. SNP

Helen Liddell, Scottish Secretary, Labour Party David Martin, MEP, The Lothians

Please send donations and cheques made out 0 us “Free the Panther Appeal

Freepost. 266 Civde St.

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Labour Briefing No. 41 Apr 8th-2ist 1987 page 3

Editorial

Kinnock and the NEC’s test attack on the Labour Party Black Sections after their annual conference will come as no surprise to Black ists.

‘As well as facing discrimination in education, ‘the Health service, employ: ment and housing immig tion laws and social security Black people have Jong had to face 2 racist labour movement too.

The recent verdicts in the Broadwater Farm murder trial reveal the overwhelming odds Black people face in their fight for justice and freedom from racist policing and the law. The people on Broadwater Farm, both Black and white, understand in practice that they have a common enemy.

Facing high levels of unemployment, antiworking class’ and racist policing they are beginning to work together to run their estate as they would like it The Youth Association cooks the midday meals for the old people on the estate, they help them do their shopping; the shops and mini cab firm on the estate are run by people living there; the milk, the bread are

delivered by people on the estate. Out of adversity they are working out common solutions

‘The history of the labour movement in relation to such struggles of Black people is not one to be proud of. Labour have operated a bi partisan policy on immigration fas — opposition to the Tory laws in 1962 and 1971 quickly turned to acquiescence when in power; in 1968 they passed an Act which deprived the East African Asians of th right of. residence in this country; it was during the Wilson government that the notorious virginity testing scandals were exposed; the Callaghan government _introduced 2 Green Paper on Nationality which formed the basis of the Tories" Nationality Act.

More recently, Kinnock has distanced himself from black leaders who have sought to defend their communities against racist police attacks and the disastrous results of Thatcher's economic policies. Several Of the councils attacked by Kinnock and his leadership team for trying to carry out Party policy in local government ‘are led by” Black

BRIEFING

ZASOUR — TAKE THE POWERI

Briefing reserves the right to. criticise Councils when they break from their principles, as has happened in Lambeth; but we base any criticism on full and unconditional support of Councils standing up for the rights of the Black community and the working class.

‘The racism of the labour movement is the product of the complicity of the leadership with Britain’s _imperialist past and present, a complicity which allowed the bosses to buy them off in return for some of imperialism’s superprofits being used for social reforms. Such complicity is evident both in trade unions and the Labour Party

In the face of this racism Black people have often formed their own organisa. tions — the Indian Workers’ Association, the West Indian Standing Conference, the Organisation of Women of Asian and African Descent, the Black Trade Union " Solidarity

Movement are a few examples.

The formation of the Labour Party Black Sections i the most recent example of the autonomous selforganisation of Black people in Britain.

As such it represents a huge step forward and should be unequivocally defended against the attacks by the Labour and trade union leadership. Such attacks are mounted because its existence is a continual threat to the power of the labour bureaucracy — a threat because it breaks with the complicity of the leadership with British im. perialism. Women’s selforganisation represents. a similar threat to the sexism of the movement.

The majority of the labour movement do not understand the right of selforganisation and autonomy for oppressed groups. Papers such as Milicant argue that it is divisive and weakens the working class.

What such arguments fail in favour of Black Sections

torecognise isthat the work. at_—Labour Party ing class is already divided Conference. by race and gender. The The overwhelming ma-

question is not that Black jority of Black people in Briself-organisation splits the tain vote Labour. But Kinworking class, but how to neck should beware of tak- ‘overcome the already ex- ing this vote for granted. It isting divisions. is, more than anything, a Black people and women, class vote. But with the lesbians and gay men — ali distancing of the present oppressed groups — have _ leadership from any policies the right to organise to work which are in the interests of out their demands and force the working class it is likely the working class as a whole that there will be a high to face up to and overcome abstention rate at the next their racism and sexism. election. Putting the demands on the Such abstentions, already leaders of our movement evident in the ianer city (mostly white men!), and areas, should be a danger fighting to integrate the i to Kinnock. But incause of the oppressed inthe stead _he seems bent on Programme of our move- throwing away Labour's ment, is a task for us all. electoral chances by attackSupport for Black self- ing those Black activists and organisation is the test of an PPCs from the Black Sec

understanding of racism and tions. who are trying (0

how to fight it represent the demands of ‘One of the most impor- Black people:

tant developments in the re- The left as a whole must

cent past of solidarity bel- make common cause with

ween the Black community Black Sections’ right to and the working class was organise in and influence the during the Miners’ strike. Party. The left and Black Black people understood Sections in particular have from their repression by the the greatest need to win the state that the miners were election, the greatest desire facing a similar attack and fora Labour victory, and we gave unstinting support. The will be the hardest working miners in their turn, gave in the field. This unity is theit recognition, and voted Labour's best chance,

Labour Party Black Sections

The Labour Party N:

jonal Executive Commi tee passed a resolution on March 25th attacking the Black Section and threatening to. mount 2 witch-hunt against the activists who are struggling to. establish a political voice for the Black people in the country.

During the past 40 yeai despite many wel intentioned efforts, Black people have not been able to establish an organised strong political voice. This has only been achieved by the Black Sections Movement.

For the first time in the history of Black Struggle in the UK a powerful Black fobby has emerged to take the issue of Black Rights to the forefront of British polities,

Having loyally served the Labour Party. Tor. decades, Black people are now scen ‘ofny good for voting fodder, rather than an ally in sharing the power,

By Cllr Madhay Patil National Press Office

The Back Sections movement demanded power sharing from branch level” to. parliament, steating alarm to some Teac tionaries inside the Party, who ‘could not stomach the political ddvancement of Black people An old colonial trick mas brought into action — "divide and rule”. The Black and Asian Advisory Committee was created, with the help of a few handpicked “stooges

Despite the resources at its disposal, the BAAC could not perform the job or which it was Sreated: 10 destroy the Black Section movement, It was like asking 2 mercenary soldier 19 ‘defeat the freedom fighters!

“The Black Section went from strength to strength. I became a Symbol of Blick political aspica

ys, while BAAC remained 2 poodle” inside the foet of the “eolonialists!

‘ew trick had to be found to preserve the old colonial ‘mentality of subjugation’ Press Feports from the Black Section

CH-HU

Noutingham Conference were seized 8s a0 ideal opportunity 10 entrap. the Black Section

The Nottingham Conference fon. Saturday March ath was ‘ell attended and well oreaniscd. Proceedings were conducted in an exemplary — fashion. However, the guller press went

wild,

‘Many of them were harbour ing the injuries of "exclusion from the Conference: only

Black reporters had beer ced inside. Therefore distortion and fabrication went beyond ‘What was reporied by the gutter press was accepted by the NEC as a correct record of the ‘Conference? No approach sas made 10 Black Sections officers to get a true and authentic Fora start, LPBS have no rate manifesto: the Labour Party's manifesto. is manifesto. All we are tryin do is to enhance it and in uence it with a Black perspective ‘Other groups are doing the same “thing from their own perspective. We are not doing Snything wrong when we try 10 fet justice anda faie deal Yor the

(Cir Madhav Patil leading. a mass picket at the racist club in Southall: Black Sections in action?

Black community. by influene ing the polices of the Labour Pa

‘Scxpndly. we are nota separme organisation. We are part and parcel of the Labour

sy. We ate a pressure group committed 10 the Black advancement?

‘We expect about six of our supporters to win Parliamentary Seats in the nest general cle tion, They sill form group in parliament 10 discuss and canSass among other MPS on how Toadvance the Black cause, hom To eradicate injustices, ete. fn doing 30. se do not consider they will commit any offence or break any Labour Party rules!

The "Tribune Group” and

‘Campaign Group” have organised. ig. Parliamem for Years, Ifthe “Tribune Group of MPS* and “Campaign Group of MPS" are accepted why not “Black Section MPs"?

How could it be that “LPBS is divsive’” and “LPBS i work ing contrary to the central pri “ples and consitution of the

We believe that the Lab sy stands Tor the under. privileged and disadvantage is" creeds ‘are socialin and

uality in society f these are the central prin ciples, Row come Black Sections works contrary to it? Black peo.

sadvantaged. They are equality. They have been victims of racism for years Black Sections is trying t0 sin justice and equality. Therefore iis clear that Black Sections are

divisive” oF “conttary

Qn the contrary, the Teac Hignaries who have temporary ‘control of the Paris are teat

and oly “disiswe™ and asing avwered all the

sill not stop there. Theretore a mmewage his 10 be con ‘eyed 10 them that “we are not

Party members had a Bmited support

However. we have been backed and supported by the whole of he Black Commurits. LPBS i the symbol of their aspirations

‘and oftheir steugele

NT!

If the LPBS is strangled the The NEC is endangering Black advancement will be set Labour in dozens of inner cy back for decades’ Therefore seats which are dependem on Black communities will not Black votes, For the NEC Ut will allow their hard earned political be a politcal harakiri!

achievements 10 be destroyed! must be said that Black Tris really time for the NEC people are firmly and solidly toreview the situation cooly and ith the Black Section move-

calmly. With the Labour ment! Any disciplinary. action Party's standing in the opinion against the leaders of Black See:

polls low and falling Further. the tions will be a provocation to NEC iv embarking on a crusade the Black “community asa 16 alienate its most loyal sup- whole. We won't take this a porters, who will turn away tack lying down!

From the Party in sheer disgust

NEC resolution, March 25th 1987

The NEC deplores reports emanating from the unofficial con ference. of Labour Party Black Sections hold in Nottingham on March 14:15t and condemns the statements attributed fo that meeting that imply separatist organvsations and caucuses ina way that is both divisive and contrary to the central principles of the Party. We further resolve that any decisions to undertake selective support for candidates. separate campaigns, statements or ‘manifestos, will result in action being taken under the Party Con. Stitution against any Party members endorsing or acting upon Such decisions

“The best interests of the Black and Asian communities are serv: led by everyone in the Party, white and black, recognising the need for positive action and more substantial representation of the in terests of ethnic minorities in the Party and in society, but contin ing to resist firmly divisive calls for separatist organisations.

‘To this end the NEC endorses the positive work of the Party's Black and Asian Committee whose status and resources have now been enhanced How they voted:

For: Ambler, Boothfoyd, Tony Clarke, Colling, Cure, Dunwoody, Evans, Haigh, Hattersley, Hough, Jeuda, Kinnock, McCluskie, Meacher. Rogers, Sawyer, Renee Short, Tierney, Turnock. Against: Benn, Blunkett, Eric Clarke, Dalyell, Douglas, Maynard, Richardson, Skinner, Wise

Black Sections Model Resolution on Labour Leadership attack on Black Sections

‘This... is appalled at the resolution passed by the Labour Party NEC on March 25th attacking the Black Sections and threatening fomount 9 witch hunt against Black people struggling to establish 2 politica’ voice

‘Not only was the resolution based on false information gleaned from the gutter press but also party leaders failed to ask Black Par: ty members under attack for theit version of events.

Such acts of undermining by Party leaders are viewed as racist by our Black supporters and can only lead to disaffection in nner sity constituencies where the party is dependent on Black votes 10, win elections as well as having @ negative effect for Labour everywhere else

We call on the NEC to revoke its threst of disciplinary action’ against Black Section supporters. Instead of caving in to racks the Party leadership should mount an assault against this social evil. Black politicians fighting to further socialist palicies must be Supported and not shveatened with expulsion,

Page 4

Labour Briefing No. 4l Apr 8th-21st 1987 page 4

Trade Union Briefing

National Justice

for Mineworkers Campaign

‘The NJMC has besn dealt @ crus! Blow. Billy Etherington, NUM NEC member for Durham Mechanics Area, has not bean re-slacted to the NEC.

Billy, an ardent campsigner for the victimised and imprisoned miners, has been involved with the Justice Cmapiagn since its launch’ at the 1985 Labour Conference. It's felt that without the hard work and determination expressed by Billy the NIMC may have folded quite some time ago.

Billy has nat received the recognition for this hard and difficult task that he deserved. Further his nan-election govs to prove the sacked and victimised miners case is 8 dead one. Where is the “ieft” invalvement and support for the NJMC? They also have ‘moved on to greener pastures, where more recruits can more east 'y be ripped off

Bily, | support your stand for the sacked miners and urge you to continue to fight for our dismissed comrades because if you don't rho one will. Bily's voice on the NEC was the voice of the sacked

IH you, the reader, believe the sacked "‘class war casusities” of the miners strike shouldn't be forgotten, then attend the next NIMC meeting, in Nottingham on Sunday April 12th at Tpm. For further details, contact NJMC, co 26 The Avenue, Durham, DH1 ED. Why not take £10 worth of scratch cards to sell on behalf of the sacked miners? Support is out there if you take the trouble to

took a pe

5. A miner lucky enough stil 10 be in a job —“one who won't forget!

Margam & the secret national ballot?

The call for a “secret” ballot on the Coal Boa'd's proposals for the Margam duift me received 8 boost on Saturday Match 28th in Chesterfield, This was the venue of the second National Broad Left: meeting, a venture heavily dominated by Miltant and the SWP.

The ballot call came in @ resolution moved by Militant supporter lan Issacks of S. Wales, The resolution was welcomed by the Mb tant supporters. The SWP didn’t speak against the notion of the secret ballat [that was left to non-aligned delegates! but they did vote against

Igsacks opposed pit head branch meetings where a democratic vote by a show of hands could be racorded on the Margam pro osals. In arguing for 2 “secret” ballot he failed to recognise Media manipulation of the ballot and ignored any Coal Board pro jpaganda ticks learned in the strike. He totally discounted NUM Sabotage: even when delegate trom S, Wales told canterence that his “Lodge’” of the NUM had voted overwhelmingly against Margam, only to discover that ina matter of hours his lodge elogate to the special Coalfield Conference reversed his mandate ‘and voted in favour of Margam?

‘The tesolution was carried by 49 votes to 14 on 9 show of hands, which is clearly more democratic than a secret ballot [Come on Miltant, wake up!

Dariol Parkes, Yorkshice rank & file

NUM elections — now face the Margam challenge!

William Head, 2 Yorkshire rank and file miner, looks at the recent NUM election for National Vice President and the Yorkshire part of the National Executive Council elections.

There were 4 nominations for Vice President: one “‘moderate”’, one sacked miner and’ two lef wingers.

Ic became a two horse ‘Sam Thompson Yorkshire and talinist™ Erie Clarke from Scotland being hot favourites and both jocke ing for the left ticket.

‘Sam Thompson, the new Vice President, " replaces leading "Stalinist" " Mick McGahey, holder of the post for the last ten _ years ‘Thompson could tip” the balance on the NEC against ‘a witch hunt of Scargill. If Eric Clarke hadbeen elected, demands for Presidential reselection would have put Scargill’s job on the line.

Sam Thompson is widely thought of as a Scargill man; but talk of Yorkshire “going it alone” is believed to be the reason Scargill. swung in behind Sam. Scargill needs the support of Yorkshire if he is 10 fend off the threat from the Stalinists from Scotland and S. Wales.

places available 10 Yorkshire ‘The best hope for the “lef from amongst the 12 was Dave Douglas. Hatfield” Main delegate and present Yorkshire EC member

firmly onthe ‘and his. dubious actions, such as his exposure of the “left” in a pamphlet “Bores funder the Floor”, clearly make his politics questionable

Suecessfully elected, the worst ofthe 12 is hardened right winger and blatant careerist John Walsh, North Yorkshire ‘Area Agent.” Keown locally as SWalshy", who he is am agent for is often in doubs.

NUM

He took over his present post from Sir Jack Smart. another Gareerist. from. the same Yorkshire. pit, Glasshoughion Colliery, that also spawned Bill O'Brien MP. JP.

‘Walsh’s primary drive comes rom self-interest. He wants only the best for himself,

NUM posi

jon over the years, including National President

Presently enjoying @ salary of about £18,000, + car, + petrol, + telephone. cic. He was recently called before the Yorks EC to explain why he wasa’t doig his job.

He was accused of having Lynks'" with the UDM in the sarike and thas previously taken Yorks NUM 10 court for not

Lessons of the Wheelers strike

The strike by 4 Chinese The TOW, despite of chefs at Wheelers having a progressive stance on Sestaurant has ended with "399 tale union issues, was

a pay-off of £22,000. iB dope: Broker wee

The amount, although nor informed of the sisike [or relatively small and of ves 2 months, despite the twice course no substitute for daily pickets, the campaign co reinstatement, is boycott Wheres and the

considerably more than the strikers could realistically have hoped to receive in an industrial tribunal,

The ruthless exploitation

Tronically too, whilst the employers and High Court both acknowledged the weakness of the picket without the presence fof an interpreter, the union did

Support Group, Regardless of the’ enoemoius Tanguage difficulties faced by

settlement significant Within the Chinese working

class community, the impact he strikers and their relative will be even greater, Chinese inexperience of organising. the workers have remained fulltime officer took no flienated from the trade Fesponsbilty for the direction or

Sita Feaflets and. press. statements success of the ‘strikers in sere drafied and. printed by forcing a financial. Segacnt st P benefice settlement 4 months after gemonstrations "and publi they had been sacked will meetings were similarly

make organised struggle seem an increasingly viable

Organised without any From the Union. ‘Neither the Branch Secretary

input

however, and the particulae, the "settlement" isa fell-out rather than victory. The

Tnsiead, threats to withdraw union backing for the sitike were. used, either (0 counter

Underiaken by black workers, inagequaey “of the officers

Commitment towards is black members. Not only was the funport for the stzike minimal, Dut the strikes’ militancy and radical" demands were Consistently compromised by their union representatives,

tribunal) oF to suppress certain actions (such as a motion to the branch put forward by the striker)

The final blow came when it emerged that’ the fullime

officer had in th

conducted "and

Concluded negotiations with the

Wheeler management entirely

behind the backs of the srikers “Theefforts of the st

support groups

which could be pushe

catering. However. the

jor employees and the manulae ‘The small

workers

of Black “work

English spea

esinst the active Tor these norke

The TGWU

has made the right noises, B the | Wheelers strike has highlighted ‘the emptiness of

recruitment black workers ‘Ons minimally publicised visit to the Wheelers picket lin, Ron Todd, TGWU Ge Secretary, sai Siike in our Union

principle to be represented by fhe union... the chance of sac

ft atso s and other groups ral and financial

Biving them m Yet when challenged about = commitment (0 the stike, ‘one officer replied: “Many lay ‘embers felt that the Union has ouurces into dispute that avolves only 4 membe Onis when black workers can ine labour movement TGWU, by refusing for al status to black caucies in S branches, undermined. the bls ng

ernational Branch es ‘a the Union's Cal Ttade Groans Without pos ‘promote this bra

4 workers. The battle for

vwell-esourced. powerful black Sairorgaaisarion in the TGWU. has been taken on by orzani ions like the Labour Party Black Sections, but it requires far greater support from al tions of the labour move

Unionisation of Chinese workers

Among the many positive aspects of the Wheelers srike teas the grass roots support (or he strike from the Chinese community, The siike succeedSd inaising many issues Teeat= Sing. “collecive action and employment rights amonest

‘eject retrograde changes to the working week and oppose 6 day ‘working. They must demand that their views and interests are taken by the delegates 10 the Special conference

Tf enough. Wales NUM branches reject 6 day working then the S. Wales leadership decision can be overturned. Des Duifield,ex-Scargill man and S. Wales President, has promised his members a ballot — but I bet isnot a show of hands at NUM Branch meetings! Maream working 6 days has im plications that will seep through the industry and will affet all miners ineluding those in CDM Notts, The members. of fhe UM must also. make Usemeelves heard and demand Lynk & Co. break their marriage vows with British Coal.

‘Come. on lads, make yourselves heard and demand better working conditions. Sup: port National NUM policy and break from “federalism and petty parochialise

Sling a post vacated by Owen Briscoe. He wanted the job! The post was nor filled as part of the Inhouse “cost-cutting 10. keep ttembers’ contributions. dos and” teflected the loss membership.

The had 10 resign from his present post before challenging for any’ other, he would have been out of a job years ayo. Instead, he was elecied for life ‘and has been a thorn inthe side Of the “lel” since the early “60, His election will add to the NEC right wing “Stalinist” supported block against Scareil. It & expected he would suppor S. Wales on the Margam issue pav ing the way for si day working Of the Selby super pits — an area of his responsibilty

There is te be an NEC 10 iscuss the “Wheeler plac in eral, followed by a Special Delegate Conference 1 spell out policy. ‘The 6 day 9 hour shift pattern planned for Margam isa Kes component of the "Wheeler Plan” All mineworkers ‘must

UCW LEFT GROUPING Meeting Saturday April 11th Liverpool Trade Union Centre 24, Hardman St, Liverpool 1 12.30 Speakers include Les Huckfield

WHER

Prckets outside Wheelers restaurant A major conference iy naw beine organised for mid-May. I aims to setup a strong, indepen: Gent Chinese estaurant workers association to complement the mass recruitment of Chinese Workers to the Usion, The legacy’ of the Wheelers strike shouldnt be one of disillusionment. However, the

Chinese workers,

From she-start, the strikers established solidarity with other workers in strugele. such as printworkers and NCU Engineers; and, with the support groups. embarked on a cam: paign to uniomise other workers iD Brighton's restaurants and

fastfood establishments. This gf0wing” disillusionment’ oF gave the “Chinese organised black members who fee, forking class. profile in the justifiably, that heit_ trade

Unions act against ther interests cain ao longer be ignored by the labour movement and the lel in general

British labour movement, which challenged stereotypical’ views Of the Chinese as a passse, in Sular community

Page 5

Labour Briefing No. 41 Apr 8th-21st 1987 page $

Briefing Conference

Ken Loach

‘The media recogn’ tole is ideological, Interpret an ideology.

“That weapon in the hands of the state has become more and ‘more powerful, and important. We are controlled by an increas~ ingly powerful police force, but is also by manipulation and ontral through broadcasting.

"The political rolo of broadcasting has grown since the 1926 General Strike, when it played 9 crucial part and established a notion af objectivity, never really challenged by the left.

‘This has developed to the time of the miners’ strike when Scargill was vilified night after night in the living rooms of his ‘own members, The power of broadcasting is now. | think, the Key element in the way the state can manipulate consciousness

5, quite consciously sometimes, that their ey are there to perpetuate and develop, to

Mandy Mudd, Positive Images

‘Someone in the Lords said: “it homosexuality) will lead to the Ultimate breakdown of family ite, upon which the whole tenor of this country and its ways, the whole civilised world has been formed."

‘We all disagree here with this imperialist ideology — but the basic argument 1s absolutely right” The struggle to get the op pression ‘of losblans and gay men recognised and to begin to Combat these, on 2 personal and institutional level, will in vitably show the role the family plays in maintaining the Eapitalist stare. The family is essential in reproducing capitalist Values and as @ comercial unit of consumption. The Tories know this even better than we do.

Fighting for lesbian and gay liberation should be a prominent partof our struggle for socialism, nat just a trendy lesue that we take up for a couple of months.

Mildred Gordon, PPC Bow & Poplar

Right wingers would rather lose Labour strongholds than have

socialists n Parliament. T went to @ conference for women candidates the other weekend, and all these advisors were there talking about “key” is and “buzz” words, ike “investment”. That's 9 buzz

It seems to me that they're so intoxicated by the heady per. fume of the roses they're surrounding themsolves with, they don't know what's going on in the real world.

“The only buzz word for me is socialism. The buzz words for the working cla

Tory alm to win another election on the basis of prejudice and

Narendra Makanji, Vice Chair, Labour Party Black Sections

We're not prepared to have the fight against racism trivialiged o undermined by anybody and that inckides night wing Labour Mes.

We shouldn't be defensive about what we're doing. When you look around the country these kinds of policies are being follow. fd elsewhore, Our anti-acist policies are similar to those being taken up by Bradford and Manchester, many of our policies on anti-sexism are finding an echo in local Labour controlled coun Gils everywhere

Sometimes we don’t realise how strong we ate. There are only Beities that are controlled by the Tories ~ Guildford, Winchester and Portsmauth. Althe others are either Labour-controlied or are fhung councis

Sinn Fein

Britain wil never be 2 socialist country until such time that it withdraws its troops from ireland. Imperialism is part of the {capitalist system and Labour Briefing must be congratulated for ‘Qvercoming this anti-ish and anti-Republican bias by inviting

inn Fein to come and put across 9 view that is basically cen. sored both in Ireland and Britain

Hangers

Hangers workers, in dispute since September 16th 1986, told the Conference how the police cut dewn 2 banner advertising the Hangers dispute to the crowds watching the Boat Race hhung with the co-operation of BBC workers, and the consent of Hammersmith & Fulham Councit Adverts proclaiming the Capitalist principles of Nissan and Beateater Gin were of course left in place — but somehow the Hangers’ banner was “political advertising”

For further information on the dispute contact Steve Blease, 01 646 0260; for information about the May 2nd demonstration, contact Kath Crosby 01 671 6811.

Stevi Jackson, Briefing

The response of the trade union and Labour Party leadership. to. Thatcher's Onslaught fs one of Ineptittude and betrayal agree to the 6 day working There is a preparedness Week. The T&G would offer to fight, but every ime {ek services to. the Coat People fight back it seems rganise Margo

Pre hathe ceta Geout g's semen ome orbetrays us

Two guns were being held to New Realism is spreading to their head: one by the Coal the NUM itself. In South Board who said they wouldn't Wales the issue of 6 day work. have the jobs unless they ing at Margam pit fits in with agreed to the 6 day week, and the strategy of the South one by the T&G, who ead if Wales leadership. you don't agree we'll scab on ‘Their position is now backed you

by the Labour Party regional The discussion in. South executive, The debate there Wales was not citical of the ‘was very instructive. It con- T&G threatening to scab on gfatulated the South Wales the NUM, but of Scargil leadership for standing upto. | The only organised Scatgil: he was seen as the resistance to allthis has como enemy — not the Tories, not from South Wales Women the NCB, but Scarai Against Pit Closures.

What was going on was that the T&G in South Wales said that they would organise Margam ifthe NUM ‘did't

Our Conference

Two main themes emerged at the Socialist” Policies for a Labour Victory conference organised by Labour Briefing at the end of March.

Firstly that the right of the Party. by junking any remnants of Conference policy. by refusing to fight ‘on socialist demands and by attacking those in struggle, risk losing Labour the next election.

Secondly, that in the face of this wholesale retreat the left must organise itself, in the trade unions.the Party and the campaigns — across the labour movement.

“The labour movement faces a crisis of leadership both in the Party and in the trade unions — it is the responsibility of the left to begin to work out an alternative set of policies based on the needs of the working class and those in struggle

Without such policies the left will not be able to organise effectively and fight back. Briefing started this process at the weekend.

‘The two plenary sessions included speakers such as Eric Helfer MP: Mildred Gordon PPC; Jeremy Corbyn MP; Narendra Makanji, Vice Chair, LP Black Sections; Joy Hur- ‘combe PPC: John Palmer, Socialist Society: Sharon Atkin

PPC; and speakers from Positive images, Sinn Fein and Briefing. There was also a number of workshops on the themes of economic strategy, international policy and social policy.

‘One of the most interesting speeches was given by John Palmer. He pointed out that although the situation in Britain looked bad for the left coming up to the next election, it was important not to succumb to the pessimists of the Marxism Today variety. Their views on the decline of the working class in Britain are contradicted by looking at the growth of the class struggle world wide, Rather than tak ing a short term view of the rightward moves of Labour, we should look at it in a European context.

In many countries — Spain, France, Greece, Germany — Social Democracy is in crisis’ But these countries are also experiencing waves of struggles by the working class as it tries to overcome the crisis of leadership. In France the students and railworkers, in Spain students and hundreds of thousands of rail and health workers, in Greece a general strike and in Germany a renewed fight over the 35 hour week — all point to 2 combative working class prepared and ready to fight back against austerity. There is ‘evidence here too that workers are prepared to defend their jobs against Thatcher's attacks. Here are some of the highlights of the weekend.

Eric Heffer MP

Fight the Tories

— not the left!

A lot of damage has been done to the Party’s prospects over the past few weeks in particular, but I am afraid also over 3

longer period of time.

For some in the Party to refer, like the Capitalist Press, to our Councillors

1d Local Authorities as

isa gift to our political enemies.

To expel Councillors and’ ‘members for supporting the Militant_newspaper_or any ‘other left-wing paper in the Party, isa gift to our poliical

To threaten comrades with disciptinary action because they fre members or supporters of Black Sections is gift 10 political enems

To fail to support the © cof minority groups like Lesbian and Gays fs git to the politcal

To fail to support Women’s Rights is a pit to the political enemy shares, but which adds up 10

Ti is wrong farDeople in the ery litle. The rest we don't Labour” Pany to distance eed to give any compensation themselves from workers who atl are involved in class struggle, Secondly, in addition to the ‘who are fighting for basic Trade areas where limited _ publi Union rights and who require ownership is proposed like the solidarity from all sections of establishment of an Investment the movement Bank, we should be pressing for

‘The miners should have the Banks and financial Insite received wholchearted support, ions to be taken over, and plac 2% should the prntworkers and ef under democratic contol. ‘thers. They did not get it, Without this control how can ther from some trade union of we seriously stop the flight of Labour leaders, and theie fight capital, the conant movement was weakened asa res ‘of capital: how can we hope not

The defeat of the miners was {0 be at the mercy of the inter2 watershed for the movement, tational financiers and In the past when workers have speculators been defeated in industrial stug- To get full employment, 10 se they have tended to look for deal with technological develop. Politcat solutions. They have in the laterests of the fooked to the Labour Party, but workers and people and-not the ‘on this occasion, because of the owners of industry, itis essen tracked. note sounding {com that public ownership, with Labour's tcumpet, workers have forms of workers" control is hesitated and are not sure where clearly on the agenda. to g0 oF what to do. ‘AS socialists, our job surely is

Iris our task on the Left to 10 fight and work for our tive them some answers and economic and” political in political direction. madence from the USA. and

The question must be posed. al the same time ‘not 10 fall ‘When we talk about creating under the domination or control employment, how do we do it? of the Soviet Union,

Can i be done by investment We must be pressing for a alone, which by itself does not policy of nos-aligament. Tend

‘the problem? We need to both the NATO and. Warsaw hhave the means of production, Pacts, and to. press for & distribution and exchange as Nuclear ‘Free Europe, both in laid down in Clause IV carried weapons and energy. We must through by the Party. There's demand that the. policies ac no other way ‘cepted at last year's Party Con

First, Labour must take back ference on energy and on getting into public ownership all shose rid of all Nuclear Weapons and industries and companies, etc, bases is actually carried

‘which have been peivatised ‘with the minimum ofcompensa. "We must welcome the protion, perhaps limiting ita those _posls being put forward by Gor. in'feal deed, those who were baches, and text them out in Kidded into taking out 4 few practical” terms. We mus

through.

do, that is sure way 10 ensure the victory of our political op ponents, including the SDP ‘Liberal Alliance, We must 20 out and fight for our socialist Obsiousy in the Soviet Union principles and policies, knowing i is one group. of the that in reality, they were the on bureaucracy fighting another, ly polities “that in the last but the reforms help loosen the analysis can deal with the pro bonds upon the working people lems that we in this and other of the Soviet Union, and thai capitalist counties face

San mean that at lasi the basic The emphasis must be on the Socialist ideas of the October class basis of politics with the revolution can again become vanous minorities and fringe real aller decades of Stalinist issues inegrated into the overall

darkness and oppression, strategy

Part of that must be rebuilding the Left in the Trade Union movement, {see from the press that there are efforts being made 19 try and use the TGWU Io overtuin Conference deciSons, The answer to that is for the left to organise in the unions and fight 19 get our policies ac epted. We've tended to depend fon ceriain trade union leaders land when they went we. hid fothing. That's wrong. We have {o bulld the base, It you don't

welcome Gorbachev's statement thar there should be no blank page in Soviet history, and that There must be more democracy swithin the system.

“I don't know whether the Labour Party in London is hhappy with the establishment of a nonelected committee to vet statements from Councillors and Council leaders and prospective candidates in London. If you are you're a lot of cowards and you shouldn't ‘allow it to happen.

build the Base, you don't build We must, therefore, suppor’ anything. the struggle far freedom in the Don't” despair, don't drop

Sovict Union and. Eastern Europe as we rightly support the struggle. in Central America, Latin, America, South Africa the Philippines, Pakistan and 11 is to rebuild its socialist base elsewhere. We must also ensure on a better foundation, to en that we do not only look to far sure that class. politics are away countries, but also do all brought into the movement and wwe can 10 get a democratic caiered for, and that they are Socialist solution fo the issue of totaly identified with the Party Northern Ireland, so that the "All of us ‘want to. see this whole of Ireland can be free and ‘Thatcher government defeated. United, and eventually socialist. Thal must be our main priority

‘Comrades, is lear that se But we mustn't. hide oUF fon the Left of the Party cannot socialist policies. If we do that Sitidly by and allow the Party'to well be” stopping” Labour become Ihe SDP Mark 2.1f'we winning.

away, don’t look for easy solu tions such as leaving the Labour Party and joining something else. Our job is inside this Party

Page 6

Labour Briefing No. 41 Apr 8th-2ist 1987 page 6

Youth Briefing

“The LPYS needs policies for Black youth”

PATRICK BAKER from _youth attended all the cam- portant to promote socialist Youth Briefing spoke to paign’s pickets: where were policies {0 the youth of this Steve Jomoa, Black the ¥S? Nowhere to be seen. country and it has to be con: Sections candidate for the trolled by youth — not a YS NEC place. Briefing: What did you youth committer of old, Briefing: Could you explain think of the recent YS Lon- white men.

‘why you are standing for the don Region Conference? It has to be seen as a Youth place on the Labour Steve: The only resolution witch-hunt. ‘There are. at Party NEC? fon Black Sections. was tacks on Youth, on Black

‘Sieve: I'm standing to ad- knocked off the agenda, and Sections, gay men and lesVocate Black Sections’ bold, in the debate on racism it bians; and on the Milieant — antcimperialist, socialist was noticeable that all the who we disagree with, but also. ‘because the speakers were white! Black we support them. We totally

pol Bresent LPYS structure is people, coming from an ex- decry any expulsions from Stagnant orevendeclining — perience of racism, know — the Labour Party

it has no. Black youth best how to challenge it ‘So, yes, I think it’s part of policies, I said “The only way to a co-ordinated attack on the

‘So I'm standing to meake have unity is 10 have black left sure that Black self-defence unity first. Once we have campaigns, issues of Black eradicated that central

unemployment and divide — racism — we can Briefing: Do you support the homelessness are raised. have the strong working Positive Tmages/Haringey Education also is a crucial class unity that we all Black Action campaigr

sphere of polcy — we feel want.” Steve: Yes, Haringey Black that ‘multicultural’ educa- ‘Action is a major campaigntion is useless without an Briefing: What is your at- ing force for Black people, anti-racist thrust. Policing is tude to the witch-hunt of for Black gay men and les a key issue as well — the the LPYS? bians, and they are organis. police have "seemingly Steve: We are against the ing a major demonstration. declared war on the black Sawyer proposals — it's an Positive Images have to be ‘community attack on youth. fought for against the 'All these issues and more We want the YS widened, backlash of the ““moral mahave to be taken into the YS. not restricted. The YS is m= _jorily"” and the Tories.

cing: Won is sour ey LPYS Conference fringe of ine recent Broadwater meetings

Farm tials? Sieve: These were show 2 tials — a sick joke — and Saturday April 18th fee nar pert Lunchtime: Black Sections British justice Sunday Apa 19th Revenge is no justice, and junday Ap! that’s what twas; Theirs Lunchtime: Labour Against the Pesahes Chee a Witch-Hunt ’86 inet posi Serie Briefing Youth will be organising at the Ie a community which is conference and producing a daily ax the sharp end of racism in is this country. Black Section conference bulletin

Haringey Labour Briefing urges all socialists to attend

National demonstration for Lesbian and Gay Rights Haringey, May 2nd, 1pm

Called and organised by HARINGEY BLACK ACTION

and POSITIVE IMAGES

Assemble Ducketts Common, outside Turnpike tube (Picadilly line)

Smash the Backlash! Defend Lesbian and Gay Rights!

Fight bigotry! Fight racism!

* Mobile creche * * Disabled facilities x

We urge all CLPs, wards, trade union branches and campaigns to make every effort to sponsor this demonstration and make every effort to attend.

Bring a banner!

Labour’s alterna the new Tory Ed

How many people could warm it up again, slightly We need, for example, a name Labour's updated, doesn’t” inspire eucation that counters rad Mokespersom on educa. miuch confidence. sind exam, that Gein tion? How many could | The second i that, partly nderdevelopment, tha etch emember a single thing basse ol ths, the Tories, fie apg Offensive has ruck, some The veil of anonymity that FeSponse, People may not sien, the shrouds Giles Radice ts doe Tie tne Tory cus, bul they ; to three thing jess eertan abo Standards three hima ak out _aT® Kos ceria about oppospea ing Tory attacks on anti- The Tories claim that_equali support of the (05, 17. Sting, or mixed and, radical content a

Shilty casero many of methods are inimical (0 fig

the other progressive practices of recent years.

Mandards. Labour has repossess the banner a sta ards, by demonstrating that Combination af inereased. Tun Sing, ereater suecess Tor work

‘ng class pupils and more mean @his failure to offer a ingtul learning experiences at

radical and appealing alter- the bes! possible. bases” fo native vision and ‘AGiaacs bsgher standards all round, no

Brent and Haringey un: attack from the right for their education policies:

gramme for education just for a elite minority Sapable of challenging the The Tories have had some Control success in unscating The. Tories have, undersiodl

Labour's egalitarianism in the name of “standard i fea and “parental freedom’". Techanisms of contra: grew] Labour can’t simply respond {a} pressure. Labour has 10 drat] with a defence of what is: {he'same lesson, and scat 1 Tor many people, pupils and —imiiatxe from the. Tones parents, school breeds terms of popular purticipati alienation and confirms 9nd power. inequality Labour needs 10 combine

‘A real alternative from stfene_—_ national policy Labour would take up the ftameworks with a radical ex Tories’ challenge on four fronts: on equality, on con-

The shedouy Giles Radice... (ent, on standards and. on coniral

tension of democracy at even] Tevel: eho! students. and}

Radice’s failure is of course Labour's failure. e Labour's promise 1o spend Pauality

Page 7

Labour Briefing No, 41 Apr 81h-2Ist 1987 page 7

Trade Union Briefing feature on Education

tive to bil e ucation Act * =

every The third is @ campaign 10 . Sehiool, the right to elect the win popular support. It isn't out

headteacher of abolish the post there simply waiting — it aeeds

entirely: genuine participation to-be bul

teachers councils in

bby parents and communities go- It isn't a question of waiting, fig’ beyond the Toric" 1986 blocprint in hand, for the return ‘ Reh; direct teprescitation of oft Lahour government. The

Organisations oF parenis, campaign starts now. It starts women, black people and the by suppocting teachers, schools labour’ movement on LEA and LEAs that come under

education committees; real vicious attack for attempting to mechanisms for dialogue bet- pul radical poliiey inter prac Ween teachers, parents, students tice. It varis by building And politicians at focal and na. alliances with parents sho

tional levels pose Tory cuts. It slants ow by Labour refusing to do the Tories” diety work By Pillars disciplining or docking teachers taking action against the Baker

Act ‘These are the four pillars of a Iris areal weakness that there

socialist policy on education

Puiting in imo peactice requires thtee things. The first is money raising Yhese issues, comparable Lifor resources, for teachers, [the Socialist Teachers for parental involvement, for Aliance in the NUT. The time to make changes. Let's not Socialists Education Associa pretend that i can be done on tion is oF vourse the affliated {he cheap, Schools not bombs, education body of the Labour fhiclear of conventional, should Party, but it confines itself 10

Tory straitjacket, in order to radical campaigning perspective q ] E OUR NURSER)¢,

What’s behind the Baker Act?

Tories launch a final

offensive SOCIALIST TEACHER

anything 10 go by, it will be hence their interest in Brent. jomed by an emphasis on Bul it would be wrong. to frational values, on our shared describe Tory policy only “national heritage” entralist. The determined use increasingly ie their second, of cehiral power is essential to teem, the “Tories, have paid theit strategy — as a means of Margaret Thatcher has jnsitutions in and around attention to the devail of policy, mashing opponents and settin set herself the task of — cducation Siming to create a deme and Tinancial and educational limi

See acne tne ae aos “This neowork incndes a new clncy-deined pattem of 10 policy. Bul they also know ee ee ee apparatus of central control comiractual” obligations and thal centralism is not enough it 1¢ British scene. dewell as arrangements which curriculum prescriptions that must be complemented by a Tn education, the Tories are meant to stmulate local will afect ersone involved insure of lea power. have ‘taken several steps prenure and. movements that hooting salut he seting up of hs aetale gale mie 10. the benefit of oral structure that much Tory F peda too ees thought is now occupied. The

there are more to follow ‘Conservative interests

‘At present, their most trade unionism. Kenneth Socialist Teachers Baker's “Pay and Association

1986 Education Act — which i im many ways the creation of Tory backbenchers and educational miliiants — takes them some of the way there

ed Brent Council's anti- backsliders and a reac- Conditions Act’ not only Hackney S. Se ee he racist policies and its right tionary backlash. abolishes the right to Ase 258 obliged to take account he to hold an enquiry in the Weneed to put things on negotiate; it also imposes @ 4. Combined effect ot Posey beet isd

McGoldrick case and cam- a firmer footing. Sup- contract that lengthens the

paigned for this against the porters of the STA and working day and introduces in determining helt work,

negative “and positive powers

twill be — Baker hopes — the School governing. bodies will

Briefing just at gO eal ofthe “ropresine” nave beoe well enough edueated

Friculum, ithe virtues of Conservative

Fo ee ueestroying “In campaigning for this law.

teacher trade unionism. It paler has claimed that ii The imprint of

Hornsey & Wood Green

poles to. mainiain a

as isthe comnerstone of corresponds to the wishes of centralism canbe Permanent pressure onthe Measures aimed at parents for “peace and.calm""in everywhere within education: School, so that teacher militancy

In Haringey, the local smashing the influence of the schools — and the Act itself from the influence of the MSC, nd curricular pravtice are Kept

Trait iatonlytidllcgeiags ceesiauncerh stag Sg of Tory education policy. For as these developments reflect and their own initiatives. This is committed to egalitarianism, curriculum and has cam- in implementing Baker. well as using the negative power —_ promote Tory ideology quite deliberate. The Tories allowing 100 much scope to paigned jointly with Brief- Labour is not only helping of the stale to pyt an end to ‘Education for the world of want 10 close off the possibility progressive experiment and

ey. educational policies. and. 10 too much inllucnce (0 Teachers

bians and Gay men for its are also collaborating in using its posime powers 1 staple of education _p« implementation against their own destruction. Greate a ‘new network” of Now, if Baker's speeches ate Gicredit any attempr io do so

Page 8

Labour Briefing No. 41 Apr 8th-2ist 1987 page 8

Building Briefing

Our Conference Graham Bash 500 Club Winner

Below we print extracts from the speech made by | This week

POSTAGE STAMPS

19 you to organise jumble sales, run socials ‘open to offers) — but

We're not ast or record hit records (though w we are asking you to raise money for us.

‘s back to London for the 500 Club lucky

Graham Bash in closing the Briefing conference at | draw prize winner: congratulations to Ann Potter from serccoeksrws Ye artes Ok as eS eared the ond of March. Lambeth — £25 is on its way t0 you. 4 iotare such ck’ Wa" coking tr a tomo yee i jiefing needs your support: fil in the standing order | °F 3 y Lsledey degen Picks time; to tear off the used stamps and keep them for us. ‘The strategy of our leaders women, lesbians and gay | ee ats Soi Send them in to us, oF bring them along to a Steering : Committee, and help make money for Briefing. it's that

Not only does men, the GLC transformed weaken and the terms of debate, won Sieoet

coe epee ears | TURN BACK THE — | cucu qo excnne

terms — which is the only as 2 huge electoral asset justification given to it — it as well as a better way of

total failure and plays running London. After the Make sure of your copy of the fortnightly ‘he fate ol te dee of Grewich: GRE Y TIDE! Labour Briefing. For an annual subscription Tories. those lessons should be send £12 to Labour Briefing, 26 Crofton Now there is every engraved in our memories. Road, London SES (cheques, etc., payable to danger the Tories will win instead. of hiding our Labour Briefing) recreate ipeliet i ame meats Bankers Order form for because they are attracted ing for Party policy, we Labour Briefing 500 Club Name by industrial decline, could. win enormous sup decaying public services, port if we believed in and Address

unemployment and Cruise argued for our unilateralist | piease complete every section of this form, and then

missiles — b use of policies. The Tories coul : the absence “ot any be puto the defensive as | turn it to: Labour Briefing, c/o Jane Kelly, 26 Crof-

alternative the Party of the nuciear | ton Rd, London SES. Instead of disowning the arms. race madness, and s Pare class struggle we must our defence policy could | Bankers Order contact Briefing: N2 9p¥. base ourselves on it. For be transformed from a Commision Beeing Women and that is our only road to of- massive vote loser into a rade Union Bri interntionel Briefing can be We catenin verse sede mente 8 Pete Cooper, 86 Woughton contacted e/9 26 Crofton fice and power. Whatever crusade for peace — in- | To: é : a oe ee Soe es the defeats, there is still @ volving millions — which sooo eee ei | wilingness, a datermina. could yet win the next UR pigeon nana ae ene ens tion, to fight back. The election sails Moresfeid Gans, Landon feed, London SES. Brintworkers, the. ritsh And instead of polos, hws Next meetings: Fay, Api lecom workers, the ing for socialism, we mus " tadent Briefing: th: Thursday, Apr 18th teachers, the workers at fight for our movement to | At (@ddress) Patch Boker, 8 Clots Eecay, Apr eh Hangers — have shown — speak with its own authen: rt, Greenway Close odline for articles for issue feugait So wsoctoni ch Green Lanes, Landon N4. Ro. 42" nowy EB by Friday, "at, alt clearly. ic working class voice a. sae 3 es eckiege yer 2 Se eee Instead of disowning the Far from being an elec boston Gor eee pln pia fe struggles of the oppress- oral ability, s programme | Gratton Road, London SES, eanmot guarantee to print : ed, we must unequivocally of, action that escapes | FFOM! -.--.---esosesssencin - {your mame) | ng Alsn Holder, 27 Leicester stiles Fecelved after this identify with and support from the economic | im Fioad, East Finchley, London satel those ‘struggles. The ex- passe, that defends the liv Ar edit i perience of the GLC, ing standards of our peo- | Y° 24 however limited, shows ple, that confronts "the | Grog Basset is on holiday; Periscope will be back next week

the enormous reservoir of crisis of capitalism, that : support we can win if we fights the power of the do that. By going on the of- capitalist system and its j fensive in support of their state machine — this is a ) policy of dialogue with precondition for our mass i Sinn Fein, support for the popularity and becoming 2 | Please debit from my account each month the sum of

black community, for pole of attraction ek ee s sia £4, in favour of Labour Briefing No 2 account,CeLesbian & Gay Biiefing Briefing. Can comrades in: | OP@rative Bank. Stratford E15, Code 08-90-76, Ac-

Over the weekend of the volved in lesbian and gay | count No. 50349957.

Briefing’s Socialist Policies work please contact the |

for a Labour Victory con. convenors (see below) so |

ference, the first meeting we can put you on our |

of the Lesbian and Gay mailing list. |

Commission took place. It would also be good if | Thereafter on . ‘As the two elected con- ideas for articles or series

venors at that meeting, we of articles were sent in.

are now looking to The next meeting of the | Signature ........

establish a national net- coramission will be in not

work of lesbian and gay less than four months

My account number

Starting on . Bee soot

(date) of each month

Briefing supporters. time Dated ..... son The most important job Alan Holder, 27 Leicester 7 Periscope been aking of the network will be to. Road, East Finchley, = " pra e aaee ensure that we get good, London N2 DY. It isn’t funny Serica ne wan regular coverage of lesbian Leesa Herbert, cio 26 Dear Briefing Humour ike that jus isn't and gay campaigns and Crofton Road, London Since when has Briefing been funny, and it leaves a very sour discussions in the pages of SES. in the. businest of attacking taste in the mouth when Brief Momen's committees for being me siartsparroting the phases poker-faced(Pericope, shed tie and tie gai y the se SAT APR 25 s Briefing no. 40)? Haste author Fight wing and the ruling elas 10 Classified Ads — Scnoriends ot me earn, | | Write to 26, Crofton Road, London SES. pul down and marginale the March for 9 Nuclear Free NN omens movement Briefing is branching out —_Britainl Tam, Vieworia i Periscope’s "anonymous Fobetets lor orisrsrg Spe Ran ae ree ; jaa Gl avery Gad FOU toe 1 rcasomshiges Seiten guesion 6 taedavceene) kab autho crefoaieny a |A right to heat 30 years a Aberating pro- should’ we demand Jeancite’s can't "get his act together, world know about your 26m. Hv bl Cedure? Are there not serious right to free, enjoyable scsuali- perhaps Re should Be advised f0 meeting, event, for'sales SAT MAY 2 choose... what? —_isethrestening consequences? fy, without fear of pregnancy, look for'a job working Tor the and wanteds: promote “tHangers march, support How doyou get Jeanette to will. or must we value more het sor! of tabloid. that will ap Your ego, deflate others’ the locked-out mbites, Dear Briefing. ingly terminate a pregnancy theoretical right to presnancy — prevate his journalistic shill ytor bist Ep pet word, Roehampton to Putney ‘Reading lane Kellys litle resulting from the col ailing, and'so insist on caretakers wat Yours angrily FSOpsemidisplay, +£1 though we hope it won't be | Ipiece on the “right 10 choose” 1 or the cap? Shing her socal fe, supervising Dan Abvens, thoced now pone a fas promptedoask somemore "Andifyoucar’t persuade her het soul ie, supervising het Watford : tgehampton Lane. WiS. | uestions, to terminate, what do you G0 contraception and forcing her to : Lables ordi ee 10.300m, march to Bishop's ‘She is saying that the court's when she has a baby? Does the have an abortion when they Gremlins advertised free. No paid Pak. for rally Yom. Details: | Jaccision 0" authorise the baby stay with her, however in- fail? The right 10 choose doesn’t ads accepted without Steve Blease 01 646 0260. | |ucrilisation of 17 year old adequate a parent sheis? And if seem to come into i. downplay ‘eNational Demonstration for | | Jeanette” isanother attack on not, ‘what will. Jeanette Teel In sisterhood, Lesbian and Gay Fights, |: woman's right to choose. But when she i deprived of her Sue Arnall London cuts Haringey. Sponsored by iam not sure is that clear cut. child? Bory Dear Briefing, Suisiben on Feces: Positve images, c’o Reading |] After all, Jane's proposal If wearcsure she would be a PS. The word, these days is Thank you! for printing my peenplvillpay= Matters, Lymington Ave, feotls down to permanent con- poor mother, and. so we are “seifadvocacy” Tor people wih article on the London left cue eons Condon N22 fraception, with abortion asthe prepared to suggest permanent a mental handicap, a principle But the printing gremiing got aren ee es EES fesck'up in the case of failure, Contraception and abortion (as that ‘wherever ‘possible people {0 it! Instead of stating that 3 ne: pre roth of which would be, ap. Janeis)are we not ako denying should be enabled fo decide and Inner Landon local authorities lssua: Weds April 15th. Briefing Teachers’ Group, || [Porcoiy, without “Jeanette's” er the right 10 motherhood, speak for themselves. Is this be- fad last nearly £2,000 milion can 2 finvormed consent. As far'as 1 just as surely ac steriisation ine applied in Jeanette's case? in Block Grant since 1979, as sooogoeoc005 fenderstand ts particular situa. would, but with additional Andis 18t00 oon to make'final my text stated, you inadver WED MAY 6 ion, Jeanette i 100 handicap potential health risk, distress decisions? fantly printed that London ‘Meeting for Briefing foed to understand the fsues." and trauma? T think we have to authoritles had lost 6 mere EVENTS Supporters in NALGO Tan scetha stersation, be- I_suggest that the question acknowledge that there are tens £200, 6:30pm, County Hall ling permanent and irreversible, can't be answered in the of thousands of people with As one of the purposes of S'a drastic sep. So we need tO abstract. Weneed to know more handicaps who are daily having the article was to set out the FRLAMR 10 poor SUMLMAY 24. saying | pave steseain again heain aout Jeane, bea Bago made forineme We precise atcuiues that Lom hesbians & Gavs teving | Kiar easy using asa method feelings. her under Sre pushing back the margins so don local authorities had to SUN APR 12 eee the tie Corners f contraception. 1 understand Maybe” she is ca that wherever” possible. self face, this was — to say the “+National Justice for nese he point Jane makes about the understanding, and ma determination happens, but this Jeast — an unfortunate. rin Itinewarkers meeting ortors of accepting seria Own decisions: We don't know, requires a good ratio of carers, ting evar. Nottingham, Ipm. Details SAT JUN 27 on of “undesirables”, asinthe The people who do know her and people who are aware and It must be put right! from NIMC, clo 26, The Lesbian & Gay Pride Week | [eugenics movement sayshelsot able younderstand Fespect the’ individual, but Bost wishes, ‘Avenue, Durham DHT 4ED. — comival ‘Bar I want to ask: is forcing any of the asues, but sheisable nevertheless choice may be Rog Race, Jeanette, against her will, {oto enjoy sexual snd affectionate __ meaningless for many Tottenham

Page 9

Labour Briefing No. 41 Apr 8th-2Ist 1987 page 8

Labour Party

Statement from Labour CND:

STAND FIRM ON CRUISE!

Labour CND supports the Soviet Union's proposal for the removal of all intermediate-range nuclear weapons from Europe.

We welcome the support of Labour Party spokespeople for such proposals and their initial commitment that a Labour government would urge that such talks be unconditional and not tied to other factors.

‘The possibility of getting tid af the intermediaterange nuclear force (INF) from Europe represents 3 practical first step towards a nuclear free Europe and 3 ‘uciear free world.

However, Labour CND is gravely concerned at the sug Gestion made by Nell Kinnock that the temoval of American Cruise missiles. from. Britain should bo delayed pending the outcome of INF talks.

‘On Thursday March 13th Mr Kinnock made clear in 3

statement to the press that ia fis opinion not only should the removal of Cruise missiles be held up during such negotiations, but if those negotiations resulted in an agreement to keep 2 limited “number of medium-range ruclear ‘weapons in Europe then 3 Unbour’ government should Continue to delay the removal of Cruise missiles from this ountry.

twas also claimed that these commitments, which Were to be made {0 Ronald Reagan during Kinnock’s re ‘cent visit, are not contradic: tory to Party policy of uncon tionally removing all nuclear weapons in the lifetime of the ext Labour government.

This statement by Nei Kin hock represents a clear retreat from the policy of unilateral disarmament which has been overwhelmingly reatfirmed at Successive Labour Party con ferences. As the general olec tion draws nearer there has ‘been no shortage of attacks fon this policy, including from ‘within the Party. Mr Kinnock’s Tatest statement can only give added confidence to ail those

who would see Lobour abanon its nuclear commitment.

Labour must draw 2 sharp line. between the position of our Party — our commitment to abandon unilaterally nuclear weapons in Britain as the best way of encouraging the elimination of all nuciear weapons in the world — and that ofthe so-called ‘multiateraliste like Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher. Our leadership must point out that it is mot the polcies pursued by these olticians, but she strength of {the peace movement in West Europe and the commitment of the Labour Party to nuclear ‘Sisarmament which offers the real hope for beginning the process of elmnating all uciesr weapons.

This snot only the best way of building support for nuclear Sisarmament but also of con. vincing the British electorate that 2 Labour government (would increase the security of this country by abandoning nuclear weapons. Labour ‘must also point out that so doing would assist in the vital priority of creating jobs for Br {ain's growing unemployed by

Labour and unilateralism

Unilateralism has a greater radical potential than even many of its supporters realise. Unilateral disarmament would severely weaken the British state, rupture the ‘Anglo-American alliance and undermine the _imperialist strength of NATO. Many observers have pointed to successful capitalist countries — such as Canada and Denmark — which have no. nuclear weaponary on their soil, to prove the compatibility” of "unilateralism", NATO membership and capitalism. However, this line of argu ment ignores both the significance of Britain's nuclear weaponary and the overall effect. of Britain, under a Labour government, becoming non-nuclear

The British State The decision to develop British huclear weapon) and 10. sup. ort the formation of NATO ‘was taken by the Attlee govern ment. {nother wards, the

miliary linking of Britain to postvar world: capitalism and fnperiatism along with the at empl to. retain super power

fiuclear status, was taken by the Tabour bureaucracy Post war seitlement ideology

stressed the 'theeal trom the East", and Britain's front line position in the defence of “ree Europe"

Militarism

This officially — sponsored militarism sought 10 palvarise the reactionary. jingoism of the

working class, in the same way as the War with Argentina was Used in 1982,

Today, Kinnock reluctantly accepts unilateralism; but he {tied to. present. it within the terms ofthe same military logic whieh recognises the “Eastern threat” and legitimises conven- ‘onal rearmament.

In Britain, nuclear weaponry forms a military and ideological prop for capitalism, and. has Been supported: universally by the Bourgeois parties and

historically by Labour. This prop is even more vital ia the 1980s as the economy grinds in fo. deeper crisis. Labour ad- ‘ministrations, as part of a wider ddeal with the ruling class, have agreed never 10 tamper with the politcal and military Supersiructures of the British

Unilateraism, however, hits the heat of the military establishment and the state’ laim to "super-power status" and defence of liberal

By Peter Bowing Exeter CLP

democracy. Labour will not confront this issue, and is hiding from the consequences of its ‘own policy.

‘The Anglo-American Alliance From the dark months of 1980-41, if not before, British capitalism and imperialism was linked asa junior partner to th of the United States. Atte abandoned spheres of imperial interest which the British state could ne longer control. such as Palestine, Greece and (ran, and handed thea over to the United States. The “special. relation: Ship" military, political and economic, berween the {wo Sapitalisms gave the United States its European island base military alliance was nuclear, with technology mox ing Eastward (the latest exam ple being Trident), The US was Content with Britain's high military spending and her com plete loyally to. American

The removal of Britain from the independent auclear club Is floss, but much more imp. fant is the threatened termi tion of America's oldest and securest European nuclear out post. Homever much Neil Kinfhock patronises the US and however mans times he visits that country, the faet cannot be altered. that unilateralism ‘damages American imperial i

sis and ruptures the AmgloSaxon alliance.

For Kinnock t0 say that American ‘conventional ‘weaponry can remain. is as meaningful as saying that Red Indian bows and arrows can be

kept im the UK. If the US is ready 10. invade Nicaragea 10 Prevent the spread of the Saninistas’ example, the stakes are Tar higher when it comes to the Kind of action against American militarism and. imperialism Tabour’s proposing

‘The North Adantic Treaty Organisation NATO. the brainchild of Trumaa and Bevin, is the rilitary. cement that interlocks the maior advanced capalist ‘Sountries on both sides of the Atlantic. An attack on one ‘capitalist brother isan attack on them all.

‘AS part of the polities of Post War reconstfuction, "some working classes did not resist the Alliance: others, catably in Greece and Spain, sav Uhrough the guise and protested

Four decades afferts foundation, cracks are Desiring 10 3pear in major co

questioned, Though Kinnock may: preach the virtues of Eastern theeat™", he cannot cape the fact that iateralist Britain. would be the biggest boost to the Ant NATO. movement 10. date British unilateral. disarmamert

‘would’ dwarf disengagement of 1966. ‘A unilaeralist Britain would severely tindermine NATO, rupTure: the Angig-Sexen ‘allanes and weaken the pomer Base partic opm $0 for these reasons do socials defend weitateralism vo the bili

Labour's contradictions For the Labour right the real problem sith unilateralism isits evolutionary significance. Ow ing to rank and Mile pressure the about right are not able

abandon unilateralism, though they would deatly ike io. Thei only answer is 10 package the Unilaeral commitment" with Support for: conventional rearBritish unilateralism as part of

diverting those resources into ‘socially useful production end rebuilding public services run down by the. Tory Sdministration.

‘We cal upon all Party members, and especially 07 MPs and prospective Datliamentary candidates, to ‘endorse our position and to ‘make thes views known tothe Party leadership. “kis. the urgent task of every single hucleae diearmer to call 8 halt {to the stutt away from Party policy thet this’ latest state ment. by Neil Kinnock

This is an abridged version ofa statement issued by the Labour CND executive on March 22nd. 1987.

Copies of the fall statement. Composite ‘resolution 40 passed by 2 two-thirds majority on 2 card vote at Labour Party Conterence 1283) and @ letter t0 afi CLPs and branches can be obtained from Carol Turner. Secretory Labour END, 29 Stodmarsh House, Cowiey Estate, London SW9 BH,

This argumeot is obviously co cadiciory even when explained by the best propagandist First, if unilateralism is 10 make cense on a political as op: posed to.a purely moralist basis, H must be coupled with the ze. jection of the “Eastern threat fotion. Ifthe “free world” real Spanien tl cain ty clear East, there is 2 case for Britain re {ating nuclear weaponry. if on Iy to supplement NATO. The Labour leadership, deeply ant Soviet and pro-American, thus feinforces ‘the Cold” War idcology that lesitimates nuclear seaponary in Briain. ‘Second, everybody knows jour Party on. moral anti-American and ant-NATO ‘ounds. The shadow cabinet the prime case

Labour Party cite before

dictions rather than @ the oulcome of sezotia the policy is not unilateralism? ‘Yet the Labour tadership have. preterred. 10 become tongue-tied on this red herring rather than confront the issues head on.

nbcoiled i

realty is welded 10 Labour's Shoes. Either Ken

1's packaging. realises the Ssonsequences of is poli

and develops iis ant-NATO. fesolutions, or it will become a ‘Small bureaucratic. adjunct-10 Kinnock's current pragmatism

For the Labour efi, the Significance of the Kadership's

filateralism should not be ‘underestimated by focussing on yon the NATO question, Unilateralism is the trojan horse im the social democratic camp’ ‘we should use i

LCND model resolution

This ..... rejects any shift away form Labour's policy of nuclear disarmament in the lifetime of the next Labour government and affirms its determination 10 campaign

‘during the general election on Labour Party policy of unconditionally removing nuclear weapons from British ‘soll and waters.

PHOTO, Pau! MettsoniFrome

Bruce Kent, Poul Johns and Joan Ruddock outside the U.S. embassy, April 41h 1986.

Where’s the money going?

Labour is offering the electorate a very good package Covering improved health, housing, education and other Public services. Its also promising to increase overseas aid and create millions of new real jobs, This adds up to a redirection of priorities in public spending of which defence is one of the biggest items. Unless Labour's new defence policies offer 2 big switch from war preparations to welfare and from missiles to civilian jobs then Labour's promises may be delayed or unfilled

soca semyees \ i

due to. shortage of public funds. The Labour gavernment of Clem Attlee fell in 1951 because it put arms spending first. The 1964 and 1974 Labour govern. ments aiso failed to cut back arms spending but were making cuts in other areas of public spending related 10 bread and butter issues on which Labour wins or lases elections.

We ask you to move the follawing resolution or use it as a basis}:

This ..... welcomes Labour's commitment to cancel the Trident nuclear weapons system. It believes that Labour in government should plan to spend the savings from this £11,000 million project on welfare, including the National Health Service, and not on increasing con. ventional arms.

Please send copies to:

Denzil Davies MP and Neil Kinnock MP, House of Com. mons, London SW1A OAA, and

Larry Whitty, General Secretary, The Labour Party, 150 Walworth Road, London SE17 1/7.

Please let Labour Action for Peace know of any action your labour movement body takes: write to Ron HuzZard, Secretary LAP, 37 Hollingworth Road, Petts Wood, Orpington, Kent BRS 1AQ.

SS eg SS a EE ER SEED

Page 10

Labo Briefing No. 41 Apr &th-2ist 1987 page 10

International Briefing

Labour movement conference on Central America:

Organise for

solidarity action now!

340 people gathered Congress House on February 28th for the Labour Movement Conference on Central America, the largest such

conference for nearly four years. It came as a timely

reminder of the stakes involved in solidarity with Central America and as. 2

sharp warning not to let Reagan's ““Contragate”” debacle lead to complacen

By Ian Bruce

‘The visiting speakers from Nicaragua and El Salvador, Jose Lopez of the Sandinista Workers Confederation (CST), and Hector Oqueli of the FDR-FMLN’s PoliticalDiplomatic Commission, both described the relentless increase in US interference in their region and its hardly imaginable human toll

No doubt

Delegates were left iano doubt: support for the Contras “by whatever means necessary from the Reagan administration land is network of illegal opera. tions throughout Central ‘America was not the rogue ac: tivity of some cowboys. in the basement, but a central plank of US foreign policy

‘The present difficulties facing

Reagan and the Contras may leven increase the risks. For, as Ogueli said, there is a danger that “the Reapan adminis tion becomes 3 prisoner of its own strategy.

In other words, “once these present interventionist plans fal ithe counter-insurgency war jn El Salvador and the support to the Nicaraguan counter evolution — the US may follow he Vietnam model and escalate farther their intervention, up (0 the point that they will Have 10, launch a massive and direct in- ‘sion using their own troops.”

The US attempt to impose a model of “repression with feforms™ in El Salvador has visibly begun disintegrating around its protege President Duarte with ‘big mobilisations (on both the left and the Fight.

Disarray

Deepening disarray amongst the ‘Contras since the con ference, especially the resigns tion of civilian leader Arturo. Cruz (the acceptable face of counterrevolutionary —erforism'), and the revelations about bungled British govern- ‘ment connivance in support for the contras, reminded delegates of the special esponsibility of the solidarity movement here in Britain

arly it is a question of paying back old debts. Peter Heathfield for the NUM cecal cd the lump he felt in his throat When, inthe middle of theie Sike, the British miners gota message of solidarity from the Nicaraguan gold-miners at EL Limon. with 2 $5. ‘note enclosed,

‘More practically, what hap: pens here does make a difTerence in Central America

“Four priorities for Action ix 1987

1. Support the “Blood Money” ‘campaign against the US backed fontras, launched “on March ath by the Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign. Get your union oF Labour Party 10 support the campaign, add jes name to the petition and collect signatures in ‘workplaces and communities. Petitions should be returned by July 1987. Get Labour Parties land unions to send people to the ‘uly 19th events. For campaign material- and. petitions contact the Nicaragua Solidarity Campalgn, 23 Bevenden St, London Nv oHH

2. Help raise funds and ‘materials forthe Nicaragua Must Survive containers (either forthe general appeal or the one directly linked with your union "cathe NALGO, ACTT, Nscl “Health Fund! or the Labour Party container)

3. Support the advert of support forthe UNTS earthquake reconstruction project, (0 be printed ina” British and Salvadocean newspaper on May Day 1989. Get your branch to donate £10 to add its name 10 the advert (10 be sent to EISSoc by mid April at the latest)

4, Send a mesage of support 10 the UNTS of El Salvador and make 2 donation to the earth quake reconstruction appeal This could also involve earth ‘ake collections in workplaces find communities. Speakers and Slides on El” Salvador are fwailable if branches want 10 Organise back up _mectings (Health unions may wish to con: Sider the Medical Aid’ Tor El Salvador project. general Unions the FENESTRAS. pro Jest and media unions the Radio Farabundo Mari project)

Both Jose Lopez and Hector (Ogueli emphasised how impor tant a Labour victory in the general election could be in Gissuading the US from invading

It was good, therefore, 10 hear George Foulkes for’ the Labour fromt bench reiterate the Party's forthright support for the struggle in Central America

Important

This is important for those of tus on the left of the Party argo-

Yet been ditched with the Party leaders" lurch to the right.

The only way to ensure that this remains the case isto make ‘certain the sme of enthusiasm ‘and action amongst rank and file union and Labour Party

Discussion

How 10 organise that action was the subject of lively discus Son inthe afternoon's workshops, grouping unions in ifferent sectors, plus the Labour Party" (see four priorities for action in 1987 3 the end of this article)

[As Audrey Wise pointed out from the chair, solidarity action, and its’ reflection ia ‘abour Party and Trade Union policies, has an effect whether ‘Sr not Labour is in government. ‘Not only does such action have peactcal effects im Central ‘America: in return we get the politcal benefits of a. closer felationship between our move- ‘meat in Britain and the ex

Repressive measures by the Israeli government against freedom of expression have been increasingly extended to include Israeli individuals and organisations in recent years.

By Ros Young Islington South CLP

Michel Warschavsky. Director of the Alternative Information Center (AIC) in West Jerusalem, was released on bail after one month's detention follow. jing the police raid and forc: ‘ed closure of the AIC (see

Briefing, no 40). His tial, due to start soon, may be 2 long one ‘and he could face up to 10 ers pido at Cl

vieted. Accordi AIC collective, t

periences of the struggle in Cen- {ral America

‘Support

Jose Lopez hag the last word ‘00 this theme in his closing remarks, “We will continue 10 ‘Selcome you from the depths of Our heart,” he said, “and 10 share with you openly the ex perience of our struggle, without hiding any of the dif Ficalties, because, in the end, our struggle needs and depends fon your support.”

document against Michel is unique, and it appears that the state is trying to convict Michel as a pretext to keep the AIC per manently closed.

Michel is accused of ac: ting on behalf of the

Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) by:

‘@ organising the typeset ting of articles for Al Ta: gadum (a Palestinian stu: dent newspaper from Bi Zeit University) and for Al Mara’ (a-women’s magazine circulated in the West Bank):

{or organising the typ: ing and duplicating - of leaflets for “prohibited organisations” (they don’t

Demonsirating against US involvement in Central America

RR A

Labour Movement Support The Conference was sponsored by the Labour Parts and 14 national unions. 201 delegates ‘and 139 observers registered, covering 29 different unions ‘rom all over the country. There were delegations from 6 National Executives including ‘one General Secretary (not including speakers)

which was the largest collection that the Congress House porters remember seeing.

belonging to the PFLP and other. “terrorist organisations" which are not named).

(The State of Israel vs Michel Warschavsky — charge sheet)

Michel vigorously denies the charges and states that all material produced by the AIC was legal and all had been passed by the Israeli censor. Despite this it is clear that the Israeli state is seeking to clamp down heavily on Israelis who support Palestinians. Michel and the AIC have been charged under the 1980 Amendment of the PTO (1948), known as the “Tamir Law", which bans any form of support or political identification with organisations defined by the Israeli government as ‘terrorist

Attacks on freedom of sion are also aimé meetings between

George Foulkes, Labour Party spokesperson on Latin

American Affairs, sald that a Labour government would halt ‘iaining of officers of the ElSalvadorean army, He Feferred to the new ten-point lam that had been agreed by the National Executive of the Labour Party, and added: ‘We must do eversthing in ‘our power to put pressure 0 Reagan (0 stop funding the contras, and 10 assist 2 just and peacetul Seulement in Central America, Terrorism Is no solution to political differences."

The catch-all trap of ‘‘terrorist’’

Three Israelis are currently being tried under the 1967 ‘Amendment to the PTO — the “‘anti-peace law, which bans contacts bet” ween Israelis and members of a “terrorist “" organisa. tions, which includes political representatives of the Palestinian people. The three were part of a delegation of 21 Israelis to an international sym posium in Rumania in November 1986 which met a PLO delegation

Briefing supporters are urged to help build support for Michel Warschavsky and the Alternative Infor mation Centte. We are demanding that all charges against Michel and the AIC are dropped and that the centre be reopened

‘petition is available from Briefing. For more information contact the Committee for the Freedom of Expression of Palestinians and_ Israelis (CFEPI), BM 9585, London WC1N 8xx.

Page 11

Labour Briefing No:4l Apr 8th-21st 1987 page I

International Briefing

LCI looks to the election and the unions

The Labour Committee on Ireland is to launch an extensive general election campaign and redouble efforts to build a trade conference —

the cause of

important results of the AGM. of the LCL held in Manchester on the first ‘weekend in April, at which members showed a jerable degree of ity in agreeing most important initiatives the LCI should take in the coming year.

‘Onithe general election the conference agreed

@To question Labour candidates on their views on a whole series of Irish policy

British aceupusion

LABOUR COMMITTEE

IRELAND

@To produce a special election pamphlet outlining steps Labour should take in Ireland when in government

with Labour candidates and Fepresentative from the Irish in’ Britain Representation Group and Sinn Fein.

By Geoff Bell LCI Blection Organiser

The overall_mesage of these steps is ‘‘make Ireland an issue” in the general

election. The overall message of the other major initiative of the LCT in the

coming year is (9 “make Ireland an issue" in the trade unions.

To this end the AGM endorsed the building of the November trade union conference which will focus on ‘employment discrimination in the North of Ireland,

This conference has already been backed by a series of organisations including the Labour Co.

cordinating Committee, the ‘Campaign Group of Labour MPs, the Labour Women for Ireland and Labour Left Liaison. Individual sponsors include Peter Heathfield Alan Sapper, President of the Television Technicians union, and every member of the NUR national executive In supporting conference the AGM agreed that the “central focus” to the LCI’s trade union work would be “the campaign against ‘employment discrimination in the North and for the adoption and implementation of _ the McBride principles" which area series of antidiscrimination guidelines.

The trade union and general election discussion ‘occupied the first day of the conference, Among invited guests who spoke on these issues were Euro-MP Les Huckfield, Parliamentary Barbara Roche, Etherington, Secretary of the Durham Mechanics of the NUM.

Another speaker was Niall Donnelly from the Sinn Fein trade union department who

A scene from everyday life in the Six Counties: troops conduct a house search.

warmly endorsed the Novemmber trade union conference and reported Sinn Fein's enthusistic backing for the campaign on the McBride principles

In general, the AGM was conducted in a businesslike fashion and without any sign of rancour. There was ‘overwhelming support for sesolutions calling for the

membership in the Labour Party, continued

Solidarity with Namibian wor kers!

Labour movement welcomes Ben Uulenge

Last month saw the first visit to Britain of Ben Uulenge, leader of the recently formed. _National Union of Namibian Workers and of the Mineworkers Union of

Namibia, and a former SWAPO. political Prisoner.

tunity to develop ween the Namibian and British working classes and to get commitments of material and political solidarity from the British labour movement

During his visit Ben Uulenge met the General

Secretaries of both the Scottish and English Trade Union Congresses and the secretaries of NUPE, the NUR, ASLEF, USDAW ang the CPSA

Importantly, Norman Willis expressed the sup port of the TUC for the NUNW and its effiliated unions, and its commit ment to mandatory United Nations economic sanc tions against South Africa, if it persisted with its illegal ‘occupation

In Sheffield, Ben Uulenge met | Arthur Scargil and Peter

Heathfield and a public meeting organised by Sef field Namibia Support Group highlighted the links between the mining unions and communities of Namibia and Britain, with speakers from the National Union of Mineworkers and Women — Against. Pit Closures. The meeting was particularly well supported by focal black

organisations.

‘At_a meeting held by Preston Trades Council, Ben Uulenge was able to enter into 2 dialogue with an AUEW convenor from British Nuclear Fuels, which illegally processes Namibian: uranium, and he stressed that a ‘management-sponsored visit of trades unionists from the Springfields processing plant to the Ross: ing uranium mine in Namibia. would not be welcomed by the Mineworkers Union of Namibia

Ben Uulenge additionally spoke at the Merseyside Anti-Apartheid Trades Union Conference on workers’ sanctions, where the TGWU promised material solidarity, possibly in the form of 3 vehicle for the NUNW.

‘One of the highlighis of the visit was Ben Uulenge’s visit to the Bet teshanger pit in the Kent

coalfield, organised by the NUM’s International Department. Here he was able to meet and share common experiences with Terry French, a miner jailed during the British Miners’ Strike, who had been released the day before.

Itis vital for the survival of the Namibian unions that British union leaders are reminded to keep their promises of support and that British unions make links with the emerging Namibian unions: the Mineworkers Union of Namibia, the National Food and Allied Union, the Namibian Municipal Workers — and the recent. ly launched Metalworkers and Construction Workers Union. Information about these unions and the solidarity fund established by SWAPO and the Namibia Support Commit tee can be obtained from NSC, PO Box 16, London NWS 2LW.

sponsorship of the Bloody Sunday demonstration, and To. support a labour movement demonstration on the twentieth anniversary of sending in of British troops in August 1989,

The conference _ further greed 10 “joint work with all organisations” who ‘opposed the Loyalist veto on Irish unity and to seek closer

consultation with the Labour Co-ordinating Committee, whose

Namibian miners” leader Ben Uulemge with Terry and Lis French at Beiteshanger Colliery

consultative conference recently backed British withdrawal from Ireland. The LCI will also continue to send observers to Labour Left Liaison.

‘The general mood of the conference was unity, But allied to that there was a continuing determination to insist that Ireland should become a priority for the labour movement — both before and after the general election,

Page 12

Labour Briefing No. 41 Ape 8th-2Ist 1987 page 12

Red & Green

What price economic growth?

“Economic growth

still seen by Left and By Andy Porter ight alike as an indica- cre,

tion of success and as

scuety eee oe Alt of this adds to GNP for You might be surprised the year and of course Dears

toleam, however, that ac- "2 (latonahp at ll tthe

cording’ 10 the “normally 2ucly st the sennce that BT statistical criteria’ the ually

provides. economy has been grow-

With a statistical ing steadily under the motnodology like this it’s easy Tories! to see how the Tories have

This is because the an- Managed to achieve

Mecanomic growth” whist nual rate of growth IS ci¢eing “down industries and Measured in terms of the Sitting public services all ovat

Gross Netional, Product the" country. All. previous (GNP) — a purely financial Labour governments have us statistic which tots up all ed the. same emteria for

the “year in monetary performance tone The GNP measurement has

also. been enticised by Itisnot, needless to say, 3180. be Oe et lcestal nee: greens” and in particular by

for taking no account of ductive activity or useful SERA fos taking no accouns of

services. Han industry ie ditty” and Take for example the flota: people have to be employed to tion of British Telecom. This Geal with the ensuing health oF will have provided work for environmental implications Eww servants and for peoplein then this registers as yet the Stock Exchange. The sale another increase in economic Of shares by the government activity Counted as an economic tran" Labour's

Environment Saction; and in some cases as Statement includes 3 commit 2 further transaction if they ment to developing @ now Were sold again at profit. criteria. for measuring

passed at Conference.

‘economic activity thet takes socisl impact of economic ment or to the social in.

future for economic growth?

inadifferent way — are we for Whether ‘riefing supporters discuss- it or against it? Clearly, in the economy according to. this ingeconomie growth at there current period we must be for criteria

‘cent dayschool agreed thst an increase in socially useful overall increase in GNP is im- question and one that the the left should be arguing in productive activity and social- possible to predict and largely is not too good at answering, favour of an enticaly new ly useful services. We should relevant,

economic indicator measuring be against economic activity

Both the environmental and that = damaging the environ. not “growth” or “no growth’

but what sort of work? Und

the envienoment into account. activity. frastructure, or which asin the what_conditions?: With what Nothing hes Deen heard of this Having established that Stock Exchange amounts to objective, and. with what commitment since it was ““gtewth”’ shouldbe measured mere financial speculation possible side effects?

running the

How to acti ead tan run on these te

‘an economy

Certainly Kinnock “and Hat

‘The issue for socialists is tersley won't do it ‘Watch this space!

Published by Labour Briefing, 26 Crofton Road, London SES. Printed by MPS (TU), Acre Lane, London SW2.

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