Workers’ unity against war and terrorism

Defend democratic rights

THE HORRIFIC terrorist attacks that have taken place in London and
around the world have been condemned by the Socialist Party.

But we warned that Blair would use these attacks to intensify a
climate of fear and crack down on civil liberties.

Stop the War Coalition Demonstration 24 September 2005 Assemble 1pm Central London

Now, Blair’s new plan, which includes secret, judge-only courts, will
further attack civil liberties and whip up racial tension.

It confirms that the terrible actions of the suicide bombers have
been used by Blair to attack working-class Muslims and all working
people.

It will not lessen the chances of further suicide bombings and
will create more tension.

These draconian plans will not just be used against suspected
terrorists but will be used against the workers’ movement, the anti-war
movement and anyone who dares to dissent against Blair’s foreign and
domestic policy.

"Extreme views"

The government is preparing a definition of "unacceptable
behaviour" to include anyone who expresses "extreme views that
are in conflict with the UK’s culture of tolerance".

In the USA, the introduction of the Patriot Act after 9/11 has
been used against anti-war protesters and Green Party members.

The experience of the ‘Troubles’ in Ireland showed that a clampdown
on civil liberties was used against the workers’ movement.

The use of Diplock Courts and the use of internment without trial
did nothing to stop terrorist activity.

If anything it intensified it and acted as a recruiting sergeant for
terrorist organisations.

Blair claims the "rules of the game are changing" but his
determination to tear up human rights legislation will not be a ‘game’
for the many innocents who will be caught up in this widespread attack
on rights and liberties.

Blair’s proposals represent a serious threat to anyone who opposes
the New Labour government’s support for US imperialism’s invasion and
occupation of Iraq and subjugation of the peoples of the Middle East.

Whilst the majority of people in Britain have no sympathy for those
who advocate support for suicide bombings, many also understand that
Blair’s new measures will further worsen the situation, rather than
bring a solution.

The trade union movement has not so far adequately responded to
Blair’s actions in the aftermath of the bombings.

The trade union movement needs to act decisively and effectively
to protect and safeguard the interests of working-class people.

That can be best done uniting workers in building a campaign to
ensure that the government is put under the maximum pressure to withdraw
the troops from Iraq and withdraws its plans to erode civil liberties.

The trade union and anti-war leaders must give a clear lead in
building a mass campaign to withdraw the troops, remove Blair and end
Britain’s role in the oppression of the peoples of Iraq and the Middle
East.