Andy Burnham’s big task of bringing down the benefits bill is about much more than money, says MARY HULL. It’s about the kind of society we want to be.
‘The task of reforming benefits is vast, long term, complex, but also essential. It goes to the heart of what we want to be as a country.’
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.
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’.
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.’