London: packed public meeting discusses political crisis

Socialist Party London public meeting, 12.9.19, photo by London Socialist Party (Click to enlarge)

Oscar Maguire, East London Socialist Party

Socialist Party London public meeting, 12.9.19, photo by London Socialist Party (Click to enlarge)

A packed public meeting on the turmoil in British politics and the Conservative Party was hosted by London Socialist Party on 12 September. 80 people attended.

Socialist Party deputy general secretary Hannah Sell addressed the turbulent time facing the capitalist class and its politicians as they navigate their way through the tricky task of delivering a Brexit resolution in the interests of big business. Hannah spoke on the role of the Socialist Party and trade unions against the latest Tory face in Downing Street, Boris Johnson.

The need to end austerity and argue for a pro-worker Brexit - through a Corbyn-led Labour government, standing on socialist policies - was put forward as the priority.

Socialist Party London public meeting, 12.9.19, photo by London Socialist Party (Click to enlarge)

The key issues for the working class are widely ignored by establishment parties. The devastating impact of austerity - imposed by the Tory-Lib Dem coalition, then in recent years the Tories alone - must be at the forefront of campaigning.

The meeting then opened up to the floor, including updates on the party's work in London. A Socialist Party has member convinced general union Unite's London healthcare regional industrial sector committee to support a general election before any second referendum, and for Labour to fight that on socialist policies.

At Southwark Trade Union Council, Socialist Party members argued the need for socialist change to end climate change. Both Southwark and Waltham Forest TUCs have agreed to organise workers' action on the 20 September climate strike.

Socialist Party London public meeting, 12.9.19, photo by London Socialist Party (Click to enlarge)

Finally, a fighting fund collection took place where �1,374 was donated by individuals and Socialist Party branches from across London.

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The coronavirus crisis has laid bare the class character of society in numerous ways. It is making clear to many that it is the working class that keeps society running, not the CEOs of major corporations.

The results of austerity have been graphically demonstrated as public services strain to cope with the crisis.

The government has now ripped up its 'austerity' mantra and turned to policies that not long ago were denounced as socialist. But after the corona crisis, it will try to make the working class pay for it, by trying to claw back what has been given.

The Socialist Party's material is more vital than ever, so we can continue to report from workers who are fighting for better health and safety measures, against layoffs, for adequate staffing levels, etc.
When the health crisis subsides, we must be ready for the stormy events ahead and the need to arm workers' movements with a socialist programme - one which puts the health and needs of humanity before the profits of a few.

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