JOHN CUNNISON recalls a long-forgotten chapter of working class struggle in Stoke-on-Trent that local activists and historians are bringing back to life.
‘The Potteries Peterloo, as it is known locally, happened on 16 August 1842 when a group of striking miners and local Chartists were brutally suppressed by government troops and local militia.’
Bold, savvy and pragmatic, Andy Burnham’s first few weeks as prime minister have been impressive, says JOHN CUNNISON. But these are early days and numerous challenges remain from the Starmer era.
Anthony Crosland’s ‘The Future of Socialism’ was published 70 years ago and its influence on the Labour Party has lasted for decades. So does it have anything to tell us today? ARUN LEWIS has his doubts.
We’re constantly told about a ‘bloated’ disability benefits bill, yet disabled people struggle with unsuitable services and unaffordable costs. We need to look at the issue a different way, says SANDRA WILSON.
July marks 90 years since the start of the Spanish Civil War, a brutal three-year conflict in which British working class volunteers played a valuable part. DAVID CONNOLLY reviews historian Chris Hall’s latest account of ‘the passionate cause’.
More than 90 per cent of Northern Ireland’s children still attend segregated schools. In a parting missive to his adopted home, CHRIS WILSON makes a plea for integrated education.
Understanding anti-Reform voters could be key to blocking Nigel Farage’s electoral route to Number 10 according to a new report from the anti-extremist campaign group, Hope not Hate.
‘Mainstream has galvanised individuals and groups across the party who are looking, not only for a change of political direction, but a shift in the party’s political culture. Both are much needed.’
PETER SMITH marks the 100th anniversary of the general strike with the tale of a Glasgow ILPer who claimed to be the first non-miner to join the walkout in Scotland. A lifelong unionist and Labour activist, he was also Peter’s grandfather.
Comment
Labour, Mainstream & the Renewal of Hope: An ILP Statement
‘Mainstream has galvanised individuals and groups across the party who are looking, not only for a change of political direction, but a shift in the party’s political culture. Both are much needed.’