The Socialist Party has organised 50 public meeting across England and Wales. 30 are yet to take place.
All of them are to discuss and debate how the new party — that Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana have announced their intention to create — can be built into an organisation where workers can fight for our interests. These reports from London meetings give a flavour of what’s being talked about. For the rest of the country, click here.
All of the meetings have had people attending a Socialist Party meeting for the first time.
Come and discuss with the Socialist Party — visit socialistparty.org.uk/events to see a list of upcoming public meetings. Get in touch for more info about meetings in your area, or to discuss joining — socialistparty.org.uk/join or text 07958 032071.
Camden – postering works
by Oscar Parry
There is a big appetite to discuss ‘what next in the fight for a new workers party’. Six people turned up to their first Socialist Party meeting after just seeing a poster.
Southwark trades union council debates new party
by Sammy Maktari, South East London Socialist Party
A Southwark Trade Union Council open meeting discussed state repression, a new party, and fighting the far right.
The importance of a federal structure as opposed to ‘one member one vote’ was discussed in depth, including contributions by multiple Socialist Party members. The accountability and increased representation of a federal structure – proven during the strike wave, when many ordinary union members were able to pressure their reluctant leaders into action – was discussed. Equally, a new party needs to be democratically led, with a clear presence in trade unions and communities, alongside cooperation with socialist parties and groups.
Many made the connection between the rise of the far right and the current crisis in our public services and housing, discussing the importance of the Socialist Party’s ‘Jobs, homes and services’ demands.
The steps that we can take to ensure a future party provides a substantial anti-austerity alternative for working-class people to cut across Reform was also discussed.