Category Archives: Labour Party

Where have all the women gone?

by suzannahrobinson

The new ConDem cabinet is 26% female. I didn’t really expect any better, especially since Gordon Brown’s cabinet after the expenses cull was reduced to the same poor proportions.

But why are no women running for the Labour leadership?

Yvette Cooper recently stated her intention not to stand due to the demands of juggling such a responsible job with the demands of a young family of three children.

Q. Where is the father of these children?

A. Running for leadership

I think the women in the party could learn a thing or two from BULS, and especially from Louise, Dora, Pippa and Brigid. Maybe things will change when we get to Westminster in a couple of years time!

In the meantime, I’ll not be supporting Ed Balls.

Suzy

Goodbye Brown

by suzannahrobinson

Bowing to the judgement of the electorate, and in a dignified and timely manner, Gordon Brown has resigned as PM. As he refused to back a candidate for the Party leadership, so he refused to mention Clegg or Cameron, instead telling the waiting cameras how much he has enjoyed the opportunity to do good that his job has offered, and how much he’s looking forward to focussing on being a husband and father.

BULS pays tribute to his many years of devoted service, his economic prowess and his honest and heartfelt efforts to improve the lot of the British people and the world’s poorest.

As for the new coalition government, my feelings are summed up in this pithy poem:

Roses are red,

Labour are too

We were right when we warned them

Vote yellow get blue

But here’s to making the most of opposition. Here’s to laughing in the face of compromise and putting our Labour values first. Here’s to spending more time and effort in constituencies and local government. Here’s to doing everything we can to make this time count. And here’s to getting back in as soon as the electorate deems us worthy.

Suzy

Something else to be proud of…

by suzannahrobinson

Labour had 191 women PPCs prior to this election, which has translated into 81 women MPs – 31% of Labour MPs.

For comparison:

Labour had 101 women MPs in 1997, 24% of the total.

And the tories in 2010?

48 women MPs. 15% of the total.

Labour have also provided parliament with its first 3 muslim women MPs – Rushanara Ali of Bethnal Green and Bow, Yasmin Qureshi of Bolton South East and Shabana Mahmood of our very own Birmingham Ladywood!

And 12 other black or ethnic minority MPs – Diane Abbott kept Hackney North and Stoke Newington, Keith Vaz kept Leicester East, Marsha Singh of Bradford West, Sharma Virendra of Ealing Southall, Gavin Shuker of Luton South, Khalid Mahmood of our own Birmingham Perry Barr, the great David Lammy of Tottenham, Sadiq Khan of “yes we Khan” fame and Tooting, Mark Hendrick of Preston, Anas Sarwar of Glasgow Central, Chuka Umunna of Streatham and Dr Chinyelu Susan Onwurah of Newcastle Central.

That’s 5.8% of Labour MPs. We’re almost there on representation, at least as regards sex and ethnicity!

So proud to be Labour. Our party prioritises equality. You can’t say fairer than that.

Suzy

The result

by maxattacks

Last night saw many BULS members watching the results as they came in the new Joe’s Bar. Whatever you thought of the results, it was a great atmosphere. BUCF were nowhere to be found, but it was heard they were in a Suite in the Radisson Hotel, down with the students of course.

Anyways, the results were rather mixed as BULS members were met with as many disappointments as well as reliefs. Unfortunately, the likes of Jacqui Smith, Charles Clark and that Labour is no longer the single largest party were disappointments, but the fact that no seat in Birmingham turned blue and the likes of Ed Balls didn’t lose his seat is a huge conciliation. Yes, it’s not Labour best night but with so many local MPs staying red and given 9 months ago the Tories were heading for a landslide meant that this hung Parliament was a huge improvement.

BULS can also draw comfort from Wales where Labour only lost a handful of seats, in Scotland Labour’s share of the vote even rose by 3%, loosing not a single seat and containing the Tories to their sole seat and Labour has marge large gains in the local elections that were held on the same day.

In other words, disappointing but it could have been far worse.

Max

Vote Labour!

by maxattacks

This is it, the final crunch…and push. If you wish to secure the recovery, protect frontline services and clean up politics, vote Labour. If you want dangerous dogma to cause a double dip recession, a DIY public service system and a slashing of the schools budget and police numbers, then vote Tory. So please today, don’t be swayed by flashy posters and airbrushed leaders, vote for substance and experience with Labour and together we can fight for your future.

Max

Round 3

by maxattacks

Nick Clegg, David Cameron, Gordon Brown

I would’ve blogged on this sooner, but been busy lately. Well the final debate went rather well. Being held in the Aston Webb building at the very University of Birmingham meant that many BULS members were interviewed by news companies on TV and radio, including BBC West Midlands, Sky News (shudder) and famously a group of us had one with Channel 4 (unfortunately, only 20 seconds and only Michael Brownlee and James Arnold spoke in it).

On the actual debate itself, while I personally think Brown didn’t do AS well as last week. On the upside though, there were two locations for watching the debate on campus, Joe’s Bar (where BUCF were giving out their goody bags, despite not actually being allowed to do) and a screen on the Rugby Pitch and there was a hugely ANTI-Cameron feeling with a HIGHLY pro-Brown and to a lesser extent pro-Clegg feeling. And my Brown did well; Clegg was still spouting his criticisms of Brown and Cameron as the “other two” and the “old parties” which while worked in the first debate is a huge bore and turn off in the debate and Cameron completely failed to justify why he would give a £200,000 give a way to the 3000 richest families while cutting child tax credits for those earning £20,000 a year.

Also, Brown was interviewed by Jeremy Paxman on Newsnight and he did extremely well I personally think. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/newsnight/8655562.stm

Max

15 Minutes

by suzannahrobinson

BULS was on the news following the unveiling of the new posters in Birmingham, Ladywood constituency.

We met and shook hands with much of the cabinet. Tom Duffy even got a thumbs up from the dark lord Mandy himself.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b007mplc

Skip to 2 minutes 40 seconds in.

Gotta remember tho – it’s not all about grabbing the headlines and meeting the most powerful people in Britain. The hard graft starts now! And we’re back out on the doorstep. 6 days people!

Suzy

Brown and ‘Bigots’

by maxattacks

As someone on the BBC website said regarding the ‘Bigoted woman’ comment:

“My guess is that 9 out of 10 politicians say things like Mr Brown said once they believe they no longer on air.

We say that we want politicians to be more honest and say what they really believe, but they all know that if they did so, they would never win an election. Politicians are immersed in politics and have a much deeper understanding than the average member of the public, and almost all must be frustrated on occasions, by the naivety of the some members of the public, especially those that rely on the “red top” press for their information.”

—

Absolutely.

It was an embarassing outburst but I think all of the leaders will have said something unpleasant about people they have met in this campaign. The only difference is that they have not been caught.

Can I ask why people are surprised about a politician saying one thing about someone then another the next minute? A Politician, two faced? Fancy that! Next you will be telling me the world is spherical… Hardly news really is it? It comes with the job, and is sometimes, quite frankly necessary. Do you expect Gordon Brown or David Cameron or Nick Clegg to say what they really think next time they meet an Iranian leader or the head of some banana republic with no human rights? No, of course not. They all have to act smooth and cozy up to people, pretending they like them when in reality they dislike and disdain them, and this almost certainly applies to the public as much as other leaders.

 As any experienced political canvasser will tell you, you often encounter people on the doorstep who are, quite frankly, idiots. But no political canvasser ever tells them. In fact, how often does a canvasser stand and talk to someone, feigning to agree or listen to them despite long before thinking that they know absolutely nothing. I would wager, more often than they care to admit.

Gordon Brown is almost certainly no different to Clegg and Cameron in that regard. The only difference is, he got caught doing it.

May I ask how often do some of these very journalists who are now criticising Brown write about the general public in a way that is condescending and demeaning whether talking about reality tv shows, football crowds or voter apathy? I very rarely see these people apologising for things they say, yet Brown does and is still jumped on for it.

To these people who say that Brown can’t stand people who have a different opinion to himself can I ask: who genuinely doesn’t resent other people having different opinions to them? We all do, even if only a little bit. It’s a perfectly human reaction. The difference with Brown is, he gets more emotional about it than other people do, and, again, he got caught. If Gordon Brown could not work or cope with people of a different opinion to himself, I don’t think he would have got anywhere in politics or anywhere else for that matter.

Hence I believe it was the outburst of a tired, man who is low on confidence and who was frustrated at not being able to talk to someone as he wanted to and who thought he would look bad as a result. It does not justify what he said about the lady at all, and he absolutely should have apologised for it, but it can explain it.

Cameron and Clegg are naturally more appealing and better at dealing with ordinary members of the public in a way that Gordon Brown is not. I think Gordon knows he is not good at that sort of thing and so I think that is why his campaign previously was focused on him in more controlled circumstances. I think the debates have shown he can win arguments, but he struggles to win debates, because he is not necessarily the warmest or most congenial of people. I think when he is with people of a different opinion, he is not good at off the cuff debates and in discussions with people. He is better with facts and figures in hand persuading people by the force of argument and by substance. Cameron and Clegg win hands down on charisma and people skills. But being congenial and good with people is not the only aspect to being a good leader.

I think he acted the way he did because it was a situation which he is not comfortable in and which he as a result felt nervous about. He then, for whatever reason, assume dit had gone badly because he knows it is not his strength. Hence where the outburst came from.

To use an example from the world of sport, Sir Alex Ferguson (and Brian Clough) both have been reported as having severe problems in expressing their opinions and acting in haste when angry. They are, however, two of the most successful managers in history. To use the example of history Winston Churchill had terrible anger problems, disagreed with people left right and centre and hated people who disagreed with him. He is also widely reputed to have treated his staff terribly. He was also naturally shy, stammered, had a lisp and did, on occasion, fall out with members of the public. Adolf Hitler bought his staff flowers and cake and was regarded as a kindly boss. He was one of the most brilliant speakers the world has ever seen and was beloved by virtually all who came across him to the extent that many of his closest aides continued to worship him after his death and died for him.

That is what I am trying to highlight. There is more to a leader than how they are with the public and with their staff. There is their principles, their judgement and their politics and that is what I hope people will judge them on.

By Sean Woodcock

History in the making…

by maxattacks

Hand gestures

Last night saw history in the making in British politics, the first ever televised leaders debate was held on ITV. The main focus of the debate was on domestic affairs covering immigration, cleaning up politics, crime, education and the NHS.

Now in terms of answering the questions, connecting with audience (whether in studio or at home) and expressing his views, the debate was easily won by Nick Clegg. It would have been highly surprising if Brown had won on those particular areas, given his ‘radio face’. However, when it came to substance and detail, Brown was the clear winner as reflected on the likes of Facebook and Question that followed the debate on BBC1 and simply the fact that detail is Brown’s strength.

The less said about Dave the better who mentioned his token ‘black person’ friend, regarded China as dangerous as Iran and completely failed to answer Brown’s questions on comittment to spending on law and order and education.

The next debate is to be held on Thursday the 22nd April on Sky News, which will focus upon International Affairs. I personally will be looking forward to watching Dave receive questions on his allies in the European Parliament.

Max

Just to remind everyone…

by suzannahrobinson

For the newbies and the forgetful:

- The Midlands is historically the main battle-ground of the general election,  many of the constituencies are swing seats.

- You, yes YOU! Are probably living in either the Edgbaston or Selly Oak constituencies right now!

- This election is likely to prove very tough for Gisela Stuart, who is campaigning for her fourth term in a traditionally Tory area

- UofB’s very own Brigid Jones is campaigning hard for election as a local councillor in Selly Oak

- Steve Mccabe is the other big name to be watching people! PPC for Selly Oak :)

- If you can spare time for any of these wondeful candidates then do it! Voter canvassing and leaflet delivering is going on at this very moment!

- Only 23 days to go til the election!

Let’s go fourth!

Britain at a cross roads

by maxattacks

This is Labour’s first party election broadcast of the 2010 general election. Now while I think the message may be a tad on the negative (don’t change at such a fragile moment, which is fair enough though) but does reflect how effectively the collective efforts that have been implemented across the world, supported by most economists and major independent financial bodies (such as the IMF and the CBI) where seemingly opposed by the likes of the Conservatives in such a crucial time. Judgement is a fundamental aspect of government and in the words of Alistair Darling on George Osborne in an interview in the Guardian not too long ago (more or less), “George’s judgement is rather poor. You would have thought a shadow Chancellor would get something right.”

Max

Lest we forget 2

by maxattacks

2. Tory political oppurtunism at the worst possible time

Chris Riddell: The broken society ...

The second blog in this series I was going to save for last but as it is the biggest issue I personally have against Dave and the Tories, I thought it’d be better to get it out of the way now. The cartoon above is taken from my favourite political cartoonist, Chris Riddell, from the Observer. This was done just after the Tories 2008 party conference and virtually the start of the financial crisis were the banks were on the edge of collapse.

If you drift your memories back to Labour’s 2008 conference Gordon Brown famously stated in the midst of the banking crisis, “this is no time for a novice”. This was followed by Dave at the Tory party conference who pledged Brown a degree of support to bail-out the banks. 10 days later Dave changed tack in PMQs and attacking Brown for the likes of reckless spending and so ending the temporary political truce. Evidently Dave’s made a big issue out of this since which, but what about those 10 days?

Brown was jetting around Europe organising an international effort during those 10 days and obviously he got a tad of media coverage, which was inevitable given the circumstances.

So it can be seen that Dave did realise that this at the time was the right course of action but once again his need to appear different to the Government (and somehow a better option) prevailed. But, this is something we cannot allow the public to forget or to forgive!

Max

More political opportunism

by maxattacks

BA plane

 It was revealed yesterday that the Tories have seized on strikes by British Airways and on the railways to claim Britain is facing a “spring of discontent” because of Labour. Now I’m sorry, whatever your views on the individual strikes taking place at the moment, you can hardly compare this to the ‘winter of discontent’, the circumstances are entirely different, for a start Unions are nowhere near as powerful and influential as they once were. It just seems to me that Dave’s using this opportunity to 1. Distract media attention from his Lord Ashcroft scandal, 2. Try and give Brown another blow and 3. Similarly, trying to take a swipe at the Unions because of his party’s dogmatic view. Political opportunism at its best.

Max

Ashok Kumar

by maxattacks

Labour MP Ashok Kumar

It was revealed today that Labour MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland Ashok Kumar, 53, has suffered a “sudden accidental” death at his home. This is a man that won his seat in 1991 through a by-election but then went onto to narrowly lose it in the 1992 election, but then to stay on and then win back his seat in 1997 and the subsequent elections after is quite an achievement. He was regarded as “a fine politician who served his constituency and his constituents with diligence and unswerving commitment.” Our thoughts are with his family, friends and constituents.

Max

Liam Byrne delivers the figures!

by kohalloran

In an interview with Andrew Neil, Liam Byrne MP (Chief Secretary to the Treasury) set the record straight in announcing that the government needed to half the deficit by £82 billion, and stated that the £19 billion that is currently accrued by taxes, is sufficient enough and that no further increase in tax is necessary. He spelled out that the remainder of the deficit will be cut through economic growth (£25 billion) and cuts in public spending. With a cool head he did not shy away from telling how tough it might be, and made a media-hyped sour pill a somewhat sweeter one to swallow indeed!

Liam Byrne on Thursday’s Daily Politics:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/dailypolitics/andrewneil/2010/03/byrne_set_tongues_wagging.html

Kieran

Neck and neck

by maxattacks

As this article shows (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/article7054655.ece), polling in the key marginal seats is essentially, neck and neck with occasionally Labour pulling ahead to a o.6% margin, while this is certainly not much it is far better than it was about 6 months ago.

But what has gone wrong for the Tories, throughout most of 2009 they were often polling around a 15% lead, this has been drastically slashed to around 6% now and because the FPTP system heavily favours Labour (the great irony of Tory opposition to the proposed AV system) it would mean the Tories would only just be the largest party in a hung Parliament by 3 or so seats. There are a number of reasons I believe for this decline:

Obviously, these past 2 months for Dave have not been his best, Ashcroft non-dom revelation, changing tack on spending cuts, 3 times getting the statistics wrong (crime, teenage pregnancy rates and the number of votes cast at the last election). But, I personally think there is one simple reason, they have got complacent, the Tories believe they will be able to just waltz into No. 10 and in doing so have not made the policies bomb-proof (so to speak) for when the spotlight was turned upon them. Back in 1997, New Labour feared Major and the government and so they ran a highly tight campaign, not leaving room for error. This is the Tory’s greatest failure, underestimating Labour.

Max

Alan Johnson

by maxattacks

Yesterday 5 BULS members were privileged enough to go and see the Home Secretary speak and take questions. Now I myself until then had been unsure what to make of the man since he took office, but after that afternoon I was thoroughly reassured. Admittedly, he was presented with quite a friendly audience but he was very easily able to answer everyone’s question (bar my own as Dan Harrison, who was sitting next to me, asked a question near the start so he kind of ignored that area every time) rather than just diverting or rambling on about something else (like Dave). Unfortunately, we were only able to get the one photo as evidence we were there and that is currently on Dan’s phone which will take about 3 years to download, but we’ll have proof soon enough.

Max

Michael Foot

by maxattacks

 Michael Foot, former MP for Plymouth Devonport (1945-55) and Blaenau Gwent (1960-92), Secretary of State for Employment (1974-76), Deputy PM and Leader of the Commons (1976-79) and most famously Leader of the Opposition (1980-83), has died today. Whatever your personal opinion on his values and ideas, it undeniable he was one of the giants of the Labour party in the post-war period. Being born in 1913 meant he witnessed a lot through the changing and often turbulent 20th Century, the First World War, the Great Depression, the Second World War, Labour’s first true ascension to power, the 1950s, the “swinging” 60s, the turbulent 70s, the Thatcher years and despite retiring in 1992, beyond that as well.

Unfortunately for Foot, he is most remembered for the disastrous election defeat Labour suffered in 1983, but, the circumstances of events can often be over looked. Though Foot is considered by many a failure as Labour leader, his biographer Mervyn Jones strongly makes the case that no one else could have held Labour together at the time, particularly in the face of the strength of Militant tendency and the splinter SDP movement. He was indeed a man of strong principles (a staunch Republican, he had always rejected honours from the Queen and the government, including a knighthood and a peerage, on more than one occasion) and often unafraid to support his political opponents when he believed the cause was just, as seen with the Falkland’s war.

I myself would have disagreed with him on a number of issues, but when it comes to a man with such strong beliefs, right or wrong, it does command a high degree of respect.

Max

A future fair for all

by maxattacks

Well, it’s begun, for Labour now at least. The slogan “A future fair for all” has come under criticisms that it’s a recycled slogan, but well if you come from the right, “A year for change” is certainly not linked to anything any other political candidate has used in the past oh let’s say…2 years.

A number of BULS made the trip to Coventry to see Brown make his speech (it’s also been heard good old former BUC”F” president DOD was there to heckle the PM) in which undoubtedly they will come back with a greater resolve, particularly given the recent poll narrowing. Brown also said Labour’s “secret weapon” would be its “beliefs” and the election would be won not on “who has the best PR” but on “values”, well hopefully this will be the case as we are certainly the PR “underdogs”.

Max

Just another Labour week..or so

by maxattacks
  • A cancer guarantee to see a specialist within 2 weeks of referral by a GP and to receive all cancer test results within 1 week.
  • A waiting times guarantee, that all patients will be offered hospital treatment within no more than 18 weeks of seeing their GP.
  • A GP access guarantee, that all patients will be able to register with a GP open into evenings and weekends.
  • A guarantee of a regular health check on the NHS for everyone over 40. 
  • In the care system, a guarantee that all those with the highest needs being looked after in their own homes will receive free personal care.
  • Not to mention a promise of a fairer and pluralistic AV system

Just another Labour week…ish.

Max

No price on a life

by maxattacks

Gordon Brown today pledged to offer free, one-to-one home care by specialist nurses to those suffering from Cancer. This in turn would save £2.5 billion a year by reducing hospital admissions. However, some people seem to not get the message, Andrew Lansley the Shadow health secretary said that “Gordon Brown needs to make clear to patients which other schemes he plans to cut” and claims that this will in fact cost £100m. I’m sorry, but so much for “I’ll cut the deficit, not the NHS” and also, I personally think that if it leaves £100 million more in debt but saves lives (which it will) it is money well spent.

Max

A nation of conservatives?…Nah!

by maxattacks

  There’s recently been a lot of talk that apparently the only thing 13 years of Labour governments has achieved is that we are all now conservative. Well, to be frank, this is ain’t true. A recent poll conducted by Comres and published yesterday in the Independent (the one that shows that also shows the Tory lead has shrunk to a mere 7 points) shows that more people identify themselves as Labour rather than Tory (37-31 in fact-http://www.leftfootforward.org/2010/02/more-people-identify-as-labour-as-public-remain-sceptical-of-tory-economic-policy/). Personally, from seeing these figures, it shows that the most Dave can achieve at the next general election, the very most, is a small Conservative majority (around 20 or so).

Britain, well and truly progressive since 1964! 

Max

A peek into the future

by maxattacks

I was talking to fellow BULS member in the Goose after the first meeting of the new semester last Wednesday and he struck up an interesting point. If Labour looses the next election and is forced into opposition for let’s say, 10 years, what is the party’s ideological future? Will then be a revert back to “Old” Labour or break with the “Old”/”New” and Blairite/Brownite divisions?

Obviously, if the election is lost by a substantial margin, Brown will be out and so effectively ending the Blairite/Brownite divide, however, this could still potentially lead to a Miliband divide, now that would be something in British politics.

Ideologically though, I do believe Labour would initially move back to its roots, as did the Tories in the last three elections. But, there would be a break with the “Old” and the “New”, from there on, it would be hard to tell. Many would try to establish a break from the two sides. Personally, in this potential eventuality, Labour should move to somewhere between the ideological grounds, more to help those down trodden in society while retaining electoral effectiveness.

Max

The grill

by maxattacks

Putting aside the Iraq War and Tuition Fees, I have always seen (contrare to many BUC”F” blogs) Blair as quite a good PM. However, these two issues have been so dominant, particularly (and even more so in recent months) Iraq’s legitamity. Now before any Tories pop up and start hurling abuse, don’t forget your party supported it as well (and still do).

Alastair Campbell, Tony Blair’s former communications chief, told the inquiry he would defend “every single word” of the 2002 dossier on Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction, Lt Gen Sir Richard Shirreff said the British Army was effectively providing “no security at all” in the southern Iraqi city of Basra by mid-2006, Peter Watkins from the Ministry of Defence said that one lesson learnt was that the coalition allies should have sought a single agreement with the Iraqis, etc.

But more importantly what’s your take on all this?

Max

Was that it…?

by maxattacks

Well in the wake of yesterday’s “grand” Coup d’etait, well, nothing really has changed. Brown himself called the plot a “storm in teacup” and quite rightly so. The plot would’ve been understandable if it had been in the wake of disasterous local or by-election results, but at time when Labour’s fortunes  are (albeit slowly) improving just shows where some people’s priorities. It is a huge pity as for at least the next week the media will be focused on the “grand” plot rather than policy announcements on either side of the political divide.

Max

Coup d’stupid

by maxattacks

Gordon Brown

Breaking News!

Here we go again. Despite the recent narrowing of the polls, the PMs improving performance since the party conference in PMQs and the Lord Mandelson coming out in favour of the government’s measures, two former Cabinet Ministers, Patricia Hewitt and Geoff Hoon have written to Labour MPs calling for the leadership issue to be sorted out “once and for all” and for a secret ballot to be held.

Well I’m sorry, but this is completely ridiculous, I was watching Politics Today (as I’d just heard the news) and a BBC reporter in Westminster was asking respective Labour MPs and even those who would rather see Brown hung drawn and quatred admitted that the “dynamic duo” didn’t have enough support with also the blatant fact that Brown wont go out without a fight will just reverse all our gains we have achieved over the past few months.

Stop this stupidity before it really is to late!

Max

Living up to our stereotypes

by maxattacks

This blog would’ve been a bit funnier (and more eye catching) if I had a couple of particular photos, however, I can’t, not pointing my fingure at anyone though! Oh and please, don’t take this the wrong way it’s all (hopefully) in good humour.

Well, it’s something that was pointed to me (by I think Pippa) on my first “do” with the BULS. In the backdrop of this apparent “class-war”, eton jibe, I just realised, even at our level, we do play into those stereotypes (well our side of the “class-war” respectively). I joke about this to a friend who is also a member of the BUC”F”, but they do love to dress up don’t they. You have to give the BUC”F” credit though, black bow-ties in a night club in Sheffield (after William Hague’s dinner speech a couple of months back), I’ve still yet to see a BULS member wear a tie yet.

On the other side of the “class-war” rift, BULS lack the grand sophisticated settings the BUCF regulary accounters, being regulars at the Chamon curry house on Bristol Road (fresh from the pits, of course) and often having dead rats pointed out to them by local kids (Redditch for you there Dan!) while campaigning.

Ultimately, this is what I find brilliant about student life, you do sometimes, meet your own narrow-minded pre-conceptions of people and organisations…..though most of the time you are in fact, proved wrong.

Max

Good ol’ Nick

by maxattacks

Nick Clegg

 

Recent talks of what the Lib Dems would do in the event of a hung Parliament have got me thinking, what would we allow the Lib Dems in the event of a minority Labour Government following the general election next spring? Cetainly there will be greater and faster constitutional reform (as the Tories would probably not grant that part) and Nick Clegg and Vince Cable (at least) will be given Cabinet positions. But what else? Cameron’s claims that the two parties are more similar than ever is obviously utter rubbish really, I don’t mind the Lib Dems too much and cetainly think we are closer to them ideologically than the Tories.

So, what else do you think would they want in return for their support?

Max

The challenges and responsibilities that face the Labour Party over the next decade

by maxattacks

Over the next decade the United Kingdom faces challenges of an extraordinary magnitude. Slowly, but surely limping out of the worst recession in living memory, this country must continue to modernise itself, as it has always done, in order to make itself fit for its time. In the spring of 2010 the people of the Britain will have a choice; whether to retain the Labour Party as their government, or to change to the Conservative government, a party whose ideals and policies deserve to remain where they belong – the past. It is our party’s duty to challenge the tried and failed dogma that the Conservative government so readily presents to the electorate.

However the manner in which the Labour Party goes about this will be vitally important to the future of our country. For I believe that to pursue the policy of mindless partisanship and class war against the Conservative Party will not only serve unsuccessfully for our party, but more importantly for the country. It is our duty to offer the citizens of this country a choice. We must continue to stand by the liberal, progressive principles on which the Labour Party is established on.

Robert Kennedy once said, ‘Some men see things as they are and say why. I dream things that never were and say why not.’ I believe that it is these words that should drive and motivate us, as young people to deliver change and hope to a nation, which has suffered years of partisanship between the two main parties, and scores of broken promises. But we can be the generation that alters this status quo. I am convinced that there are many talented individuals from all racial, religious and economic backgrounds who can come together and make change happen, thus writing another illustrious chapter in the history of our country. Change can only happen if we embrace each other’s differences, celebrate the values we share. If we can do this, we will be able to create the sort of country we want.

The responsibility that we have is the direction that our country intends to move in the next decade. We must be ready to offer not only rhetoric, but solid policies to the British people. Progressive tax systems, a national care system for the elderly; education reforms, including raising the age of starting formal education to seven years old, and doing away with up-front fees for university students, replacing it with a graduate tax – these are just are some of the possible policies that the Labour Party should be presenting to the electorate. Only progressive, radical thinking will show the British people that we remain restless and eager for change. That although we are the party of the NHS, the minimum wage, equality legislation for minority groups, as well as so many other successes, we also seek to continue the reforms that we have often initiated. The work of the progressive liberal is never complete. We must not tire to challenge those who believe that change cannot happen.

Our country needs a political party who will stand up for people who think that all is lost. Whether they are Black, White, Indian, Pakistani; man, woman; young, old; poor or more affluent; gay, straight; disabled or not disabled; whether from England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, we need to show the people that we are the party of equality. That we are the party of diversity and fairness and ambition, and all the other inspirational values that this country shares. As was highly publicised last year, the expenses scandal affected British politics deeply; it is the job of all the main political parties to begin to rebuild the trust with the electorate. Never again should the House of Commons be so hideously undermined. This institution should be the foundations on which our democracy is built upon. It is essential that we make our politicians realise how much damage they have inflicted on our political system; we, in the Labour Party, must spearhead a decade of democratic empowerment to all our citizens, but especially those who feel they have already been forgotten – ethnic minorities, the working classes and young people.

However it is a mighty task, one that cannot be solved by any one person or programme, but by a collective and common effort. Our lives are too short; this should not be the time for hopelessness or austerity. This should not be the time for division and conservatism. What we need in this country is hope, a desire for change; Britain needs a government who is determined to all that is possible to make life better for its people. We, in the Labour Party, must be the bastions of the progressive and liberal advancement that our country will undoubtedly need, if it is to keep its place in the world.

BULS member, Callum Anderson

2009 economics summed up, quite brilliantly

by maxattacks

I was reading through the Observer today and found an article from Will Hutton, that essentially summed up 2009 economically (find the main article here http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2010/jan/03/uk-economic-recovery). The main points being if you can’t be bothered reading:

  • A booming stock market at the end of the year
  • The quickest ever unemployment fall in post-war history
  • Unemployment half a million less than it would’ve been under the Conservatives
  • Labour giving £5bn to Jobcentre Plus Network meaning 10,000 vacancies were found per day
  • The bank bail out and subsequent deficit being the only choice available at the time
  • With a potential Bank collapse had the Tory’s been in power

Max

No 3 million mark for this recession

by maxattacks

Job centre in Glasgow

According to the latest forecast from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, unemployment will rise to 2.8 million in 2010, Dr John Philpott, chief economic adviser to the CIPD, said it was a “remarkable outcome” that unemployment had not taken off further, given the scale of the downturn.

However, it is in fact unremarkable, the action taken by this Government over the last year has ensured that unemployment would not rise above the 3 million mark unlike in the two previous recessions. He then warned unemployment could also rise higher if …the government imposed deeper spending cuts, blatantly showing that not only do the rest of the political world agrees with out actions, but so do most independant organisations, placing one particlar party in the corner, no guesses who.

Max

RIP David Taylor, MP

by maxattacks

David Taylor MP

David Taylor, the 63 year old Labour MP for North West Leicestershire died at Queen’s Hospital, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire. He served on three select committees, including the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, and he was chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Smoking and Health. I believe everyone here could wish their deepest condolonces to his family and friends and the constituents of North West Leicestershire.

Televised debates

by maxattacks

Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg

After a while of talks and speculation, a deal has finally been brokered between the three major parties and three broadcasting companies. The three party leaders will battle it out over a series of three broadcasts. The first is to be on ITV, hosted by Alastair Stewart, the second on Sky, hosted by Adam Boulton and the third and final debte will be on BBC, hosted by David Dimbleby.

Now clearly this is a golden chance to re-present politics to the increasingly bitter and disalusioned public. This being clearly something new to the British public will have I’m guessing, at least 10 million watching (well for the first and third debates anyway). There will also hopefully be the SNP and Plaid Cymru participating in the respective regional debates of Scotland and Wales with one also being held in Northeren Ireland.

I personally hope, that unlike in PMQs, where obviously the questions are directed at the PM, the British public will question Cameron on his policies (if he has enough for an hour and a half debate, which I sincerly doubt) and show that the Tories haven’t changed and that a change of logo and slogon doesn’t mean a change of mindset.

Max

The Pre-Budget Report

by maxattacks

Ok I got back earlier than I thought I would, so here are a few of the main provisions of the Pre-Budget Report:

  1. Budget deficit to be halved by 2013
  2. One-off 50% tax on bank bonuses of more than £25,000
  3. Inheritance tax to be frozen at £325,000 until 2011
  4. All national insurance rates to rise by 0.5% from April 2011
  5. Increase in corporation tax for small businesses to be deferred
  6. Under-24s to be guaranteed work or training after six months out of work
  7. Basic state pension will rise by 2.5% in April 2010
  8. Child and disability benefit to rise by 1.5% in 2010
  9. £160m investment in low-carbon and renewable projects
  10. £200m extra investment for Warm Front insulation scheme, helping 65,000 households
  11. Boiler scrappage scheme for 125,000 households
  12. Free school meals to an extra 500,000 low income families
  13. Growth of 1%-1.5% expected in 2010 and 3.5% in 2011 and 2012

Note an air of social justice and equality rather than in the case of 3. raising to £1million to help the top 2% of families. I know who I’m voting for.

And from the BBC website, Osbourne said ”the Tories would take action to reduce the deficit while protecting the poorest in society.”…the irony

Max

Pre-pre-Budget Report

by maxattacks

As I wont be here at the time of the Pre-Budget (12.30) I thought it’d be suitable to blog on what we know is coming up in the pre-Budget report. Well the only thing I can gather is that Banks may face a one-off 50% levy on bonuses above a level which could be as low as £10,000.

Obviously, I’ll blog this evening on the full pre-Budget report but until then what do you make of this proposal?

Selly Oak constituency meeting and then BULS Christmas Curry!

by maxattacks
Well another year gone. And now in the season of good will and merryment, BULS invites all members to our very own Christmas curry night on Tuesday 8th December. However, before this is a meeting with the Selly Oak constituency club which should last 7.45-9.30.Anyway, we will be meeting at the Learning centre building on campus (the one near the train station) for 7.45, if you don’t know where it is though Dora will meet anyone unsure at the Guild front reception at 7.40. After the meeting we will the preceed to the curry place, Chamon, which I think is on Bristol Road.

You don’t have to attend the meeting or vice-versa but if you want to only go for the curry meet outside the Learning centre before 9.30 and then we will walk to Chamon. Any problems, email: committee@bulsonline.org or phone Dora:07958327889

4 points closer

by maxattacks

2 new polls published a fortnight after the previously blogged upon Ipos-MORI poll in the Observer (which showed the Tories lead to be shrunk to 6 points), show that the Conservative party’s lead over Labour have in both polls shrunk by 4 points, leaving it at a 10 point lead. Is this the fight back mentioned at the conference in Brighton caused by Cameron’s incoherant policy over Europe? The economic optimism? Or merely a (big) blip?

Queen’s Speech

by maxattacks

I think the policies outlined in the Queen’s Speech are a real indication of which party really cares about the people of this country.

For the financially disadvantaged: – a savings gateway

For young people: – the ambitious aim of eradicating child poverty by 2020 will be enshrined in law, in order to force the incoming government to protect Britain’s youth at all costs.
                          – the widening of access to apprenticships
                          – early action for poorly performing schools

For minorities: – representation and respect for example through kosher and halal options of meals on wheels
                      – increase in positive action and closing the gender pay gap

For the sick: – further improvements to Labour’s NHS

For us all: – greater access and openess through strengthening local governments, constitutional reform and increasing the transparency of party donations
               – security from the whims of banking elites through greater government control

I know who I’ll be voting for.

Suzy

Labour win in Glasgow NE

by chrisblewitt

The official results read as follows:

Labour – 12,231 votes (59.39%)

SNP – 4,120 votes (20%)

Tory – 1,075 votes (5.22%)

BNP – 1,013 votes (4.92%)

Solidarity – 794 votes (3.86%)

Lib Dems – 474 votes (2.30%)

Total votes cast – 20,595

Despite the worst turnout in a Scottish by-election ever, this result leaves me with the feeling that we aren’t totally done yet. I think this by-election at least gives us some hope in bonnie Scotland where the SNP seem to be crumbling away and the Tories are failing to make in-roads.

Brown’s Christmas Present to Britain

by maxattacks

As seen recently in the news, PM Gordan Brown, has vowed economic upturn by the end of the fourth financial quatre and this year and while yes there has been another quatre of contraction, this was only minor (0.4%). Consequently, there is an upbeat mood in the financial sector, unemployment growth is slowing and businesses are regaining their losses. Essentially, economic recovery is on its way.

However, let me ask a “What if?” question. What if in the sudden collapse of the banks last October had Brown, Darling, the Cabinet and the Labour government had taken a different choice? What if they had done what the Conservatives had been arguing only a fortnight later? A second great depression, waves upon wave of mass redundancy with unemployment reaching 3 million within a matter of months and the British people watching their money flow down the drain along with bankrupt banks.

This could have come to pass. A re-run of the mid-1930s.

Many Tories though like to forget about the first 10 days of that financial freefall. The days in which Cameron, leader of the Conservative and Unionist Party, supported the emergency bail-out of the banks from a Labour government. However, originally enough, Cameron on the 10th day of the crisis played his favourite game, “flip-flopping”, at this critical moment in British Politics, Cameron (who had been sidlelined by Brown’s jetting to different EU and US leaders to organise an international bail-out to help stabilize the crisis) called the wrong shot.

But why do that? He obviously knew that it was the right decision to support the package, as he himself did for a brief period, along with the fact that every other major political party and government in the world was following suit. Ultimatley, we will never quite know Cameron’s change of direction (again). But what we do know is that the decisions that were made by the Labour government, were the right ones, while not saving Britain from recession (as this was evidantly impossible) they clearly reduced its damaging effects and has helped Britain weather this financial storm.

By Max Ramsay, BULS member

Pizza with Jaqui Smith

by chrisblewitt

My first experience of being involved in a political experience was on Saturday 3rd October. I had never been politically active before and was not actually that well informed about politics. I decided to join the Labour Society at the Society Fair as it was the party I related to the most but mainly because I wanted to understand more about the World of Politics.
 
We took the train into Redditch where we were greeted by Richard Smith – Jacqui’s husband. I didn’t really understand what it was we were actually going to do but I was soon to find out. We split off into groups and each went into a different part of Redditch where we door knocked and filled in a Voter ID form. It was a good experience to talk with people on their doorsteps about what they felt about local politics – that is when they opened their doors and didn’t pretend not to hear me, or when their dogs didn’t try to bite my ankles.
 
This was followed by leafleting in another area of Redditch. Although easier than having to face people on their doorsteps I preferred making contact with people and hearing their opinions.
 
We were then taken in Richards car back to the Smith’s home where we were invited to pizza, dips and beer. It was fascinating to listen to the Labour society, Jacqui Smith and local Redditch Councillors talking about what I still feel is the foreign world of politics. It did however make me want to learn and understand more about it, which was probably the best thing I took away from the experience.

by Amira Mullaney

Time for Questions

by chrisblewitt

It has been widely reported that the BBC may be considering inviting BNP leader Nick Griffin to appear on Question Time. This could pose some problems for Gordon Brown as currently the Labour Party will not share a platform with the BNP. It seems to me that there needs to be a reversal on this policy now that the BNP have succeeded in winning two seats in the European parliament, if we want to beat the BNP we have to meet them in open debate. It is clear that there is electoral support for this party and we cannot ignore that, therefore I believe the Labour Party should send an MP to have an open debate on Question Time and tackle the hideous things that Griffin has to say head on. Only then can the truth about the BNP be truly exposed.

Sick of Smeargate? I am!

by Birmingham University Labour Students

My response to the BBC News twitterfeed was less than polite this afternoon- BORING! Can we hear something new please?

But my real issue is the way we have handled the issue as a Party. Collectivism, an ideal that supposedly forms the foundation of our politics is in severe question, with Labour loyalty nowhere to be seen. Our strength lies behind the vacuous Tory Party manifesto, which provides no basis or legitimacy to attack Labour policy. “Smeargate” has given the Conservatives a much sought after gift- grounds on which to lawfully critique our Party.

Well if “smeargate” was a gift then the Tories must think that Christmas has come early! Party members proudly jumping at the opportunity to say their piece, feeding the monster that is the media and playing into the hands of our opponents, ensuring that one foolish mistake is worthy of the front page day after day after day.

Well today is day 5- and I have had enough!

With the general election looming, and the European elections on our doorsteps now is not the time for naval gazing and petty infighting is not an option. We need to build a bridge and get over it, stand shoulder to shoulder once again and only by doing this will we secure a historic fourth term.

Hollie Jones is a BULS member

“If I could say one thing to Prime Minister Brown, President Obama and the G20…”

by Eriic

If you haven’t seen this yet, here it is.  It’s all taken from www.labour.org.uk:

What would you say to Gordon Brown, Barack Obama and the G20?

On 2 April 2009, world leaders from the G20 countries – representing 85% of the world’s output – will meet in London. They will meet against the backdrop of the worst international banking crisis in generations.

The London Summit will take place against the backdrop of exceptionally challenging economic circumstances. But, just as after the Second World War visionary leaders laid the groundwork for 30 years of prosperity and growth, built on international economic cooperation, this crisis is also an opportunity.

The world’s leading economies can come together and lay the foundations not just for a sustainable economic recovery, but also for a genuinely new era of international economic partnership – a global deal, in which all countries have a part to play and all will see the benefits.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown says
“At the G20 we will be discussing ideas to lead the world from recession to recovery, and I want people to feel not just that they have a stake in those discussions, but that they also have a say”.

So tell us what you want to say to the G20 world leaders before the summit and we’ll make sure we pass on as many of your comments as possible.

At least Clarkson isn’t as stupid as Dale

by chrisblewitt

It is good news that Clarkson had the guts to apologise after his ‘One eyed Scottish idiot’ remark when filming in Australia. I assume becuase the Brand/Ross affair got completely out of hand, after a certain newspaper decided to get all high and mighty, he made the correct decision to retract his statement, fair play to him.

On the other hand, Iain Dale is a completely different kettle of fish. I am sure that most of us agree, even the Tories among us, that his defence of Carol (daren’t mention her surname) was completely unnecassary. Surely it must be time for him to say ‘sorry I was wrong, lets just get over this’? No-one can defend the use of the term ‘golliwog’ no matter what the context, it is wholely derogatory and bigoted to even consider this an acceptable term in today’s British society.

Strengthening the Minimum Wage

by bensemens

Over the past term , BULS has been running a campaign on the equalisation of the minimum wage. Our aim is the elimination of the 18-22 age bracket and leveling the wage of those in that age bracket up to the full £5.73 an hour.

We had a fantastic response from all students and managed to collect over 600 signatures with many more too come.

Last Friday , Gisela Stuart MP for Edgbaston, came and spoke at our first public meeting and showed support for our campaign.

Gisela started off the night with a talk on how the minimum wage came into effect and why it was so important. We all agree, the national minimum wage (NMW) is one of our cornerstone achievement as a party and government , it is an achievement that makes us proud to be labour.

Contrary to some economic positions , unemployment is bad, it excludes individuals from making money firstly. As well as ostracising them from the rest of society. This exclusion can lead to a cycle of dependance on the state, social depravation and even poverty. But, a NMW allows individuals to earn more than state benefits , it promote social inclusion allowing them to maintain good mental and physical health. It makes an individual feel part of the wider society.

Yet , how can we still have such an arbitray age bracket that actively discriminates against a worker due to their age?

No benefits discriminates like this, No company or individual would get away with paying over 65′s a different rate, yet if you are under 22 you can be paid at a lower rate to your colleagues over 22, even in the same position.

The next step in the campaign is to bring it too a wider audience, its positive reception at Birmingham alone is proof that this campaign is wanted and with more support we can eradicate this unnecessary age bracket and deliver equality to all those effected.

Ben is the newly elected BULS freshers’ officer- Ed

Matt Strong-ly denies Birmingham Labour Students love-in.

by Birmingham University Labour Students
Matt Strong during the Labour Students disco in Sheffield

Matt Strong during the Labour Students disco in Sheffield

Matt Strong, National Secretary of the National Organisation of Labour Students (NOLS), has strongly denied rumours that his favourite Labour Club is infact Brum’s own BULS.  BULS has long been considered a thorn in the side of NOLS and the claim will surely damage Mr. Strong’s personal credibility with his NOLS colleagues as well as his former club in Manchester – who have expressed severe unhappiness at the rumours.

It is alleged that Mr. Strong confronted Tom Guise, Chair of BULS, in a car-park in Sheffield and told him the news.  Reasons given were superficial but nonetheless important, Mr. Strong very much enjoyed BULS’ ability to outlast over 130 Labour Students in the bar the previous night (with Ben Semens, Tom Marley and Guise himself all lasting past 5am), thus winning the strong endorsement from NOLS office.

In a press release from BULS HQ, Guise expressed his keen desire for BULS to continue impressing the national office in such ways at future events.  BULS is making preparations to last passed 6am at the next national event to be held in London in December.

Mr. Strong’s lawyers have refused to comment on his behalf and it is thought that Strong has gone into hiding North of the border.

Rowling donates to party

by Brigidjones

Good old JK Rowling :) I’ve been a fan of hers almost as long as I have been the Labour party, having been given the Philosophers Stone for Christmas in 1997. It’s a welcome reminder to the public that the Tories still pose a threat, and that they really don’t have the interest of real, vulnerable people at heart. As a self made millionaire she could so easily be a poster girl for the bizzare Conservative “You can get it if you really want” campaign; but she has her head screwed on, and isn’t about to forget where she came from and how difficult it was to get where she was. She has hinted before that her Potter stories were an allergoy for the Thatcher years, and I’m delighted that the policy she most hates of the Tories is their clueless policy on married tax breaks.

Critics have suggested that if she were serious about child poverty she’d have given her money to another charity; but it comes back to the debate as to who should look after needy causes, the state or the charitable sector? Rowling has clearly chosen the state, and has recognised that keeping Labour in power will secure not just one million pounds to fight child poverty; it will mean a lot, lot more.

Forget the challenge, lets move Forward

by Brigidjones

A poll in the Guardian today puts David Miliband and Gordon Brown an equal 21 points behind David Cameron in the popularity polls. Hopefully this should help put to bed speculation about a new leader: The evidence suggests there is no point in a Milibland challenge.

As I have said all along, I don’t care who leads us just as long as I can be proud of the policies we promote and enact. Since there is an excellent chance we won’t get a forth term, it would be exciting to see some of the progressive policies that came out of the national consultation put into practice while we know we can, rather than gathering dust in a forgotten manifesto. Sorting out the minimum wage would be a nice start…

Lies, damned lies and Tory rhetoric

by John Ritchie

One of the very first posts ever to appear on this now highly-successful blog was my rebuttal of some spurious spin being spouted by BULS’s good friend Praguetory, and the-then Chairman of the-then BUCF.

Well, almost 2 years later, my good comrade Tom Miller drew my attention to this post, which knocks on the head some of the myths being pedalled by our friends who believe everything they read in the Hate Mail.
So compared to the Tories (and our continental neighbours), taxes are actually rather low under Labour.  Shall we move on to the rest of Daniel’s list?

A BULS badge (which gives free entry to most Labour events) will go to anyone who can critique any of Daniel’s economic measures under Labour against a similar period under the Tories.

In answer to what we do now…

by Tom Guise


At the end of last week, in the aftermath of a terrible by-election defeat in Glasgow East, I was about ready to call for Gordon Brown’s head. However, I’ve learned many times in the past never to write a blog when I’m angry.

The more I think of it, the more I realise just how good a PM Brown can be. As we look at an increasingly worrying economic outlook, it has become clear to me that Brown is the only possible candidate to steer the country through. A view that might seem as if I’m merely treading the party line, but so be it.

Now, to the main thrust of this particular rambling. I mentioned last week that I was waiting to find out what had happened at the National Policy Forum in Warwick this weekend. That is a meeting that involves constituency, union and parliamentary representatives who are charged with the task to formulate the next manifesto. It is part of the partnership in power process that ensures the voice of the grassroots members is aired whilst Labour remain in office.

The positive policy proposals from the NPF are promising.  For instance, the next manifesto will back an extension of the franchise to include 16 and 17 year olds as well as a fully elected House of Lords.  The Government has also backed a move to extend the full minimum wage to 21 year olds.  However, BULS ofcourse would like to see this extended to all workers. The move will mean an extra £1 per hour for 50 000 workers. 

The manifesto will also make a stronger committment to using in-house hospital cleaning services, whilst giving hospitals greater power to terminate contracts with inadequate private providers.  Something the Guild has some experience in, with a charging cashpoint.

The press have it in for Gordon Brown and have done for months but it doesn’t render our party incapable to govern.  As the NPF has shown, our party can still come up with good policies that capture the countries imagination.  The challenge is putting our message across to voters.

So while it is tempting to call for Brown’s blood, it might not be the wisest thing to do.  Changing a Prime Minister without a full democratic mandate might be justified by pointing to precedent, yet doing it twice would be wholly unjustifiable.  The NPF proves that we can still keep in touch with core Labour values, without compromising economic prosperity.  I say lets put our efforts into policy development ahead of, what will be, a close General Election.

Breaking News: NEC Results

by Tom Guise

The results of the recent NEC elections have just been announced, here are the winners;

Constituency Section:

Ann Black

Peter Kenyon

Ellie Reeves

Christine Shawcroft

Peter Wheeler

Peter Willsman

 

National Treasurer:

Jack Dromey

 

National Auditor:

Ian Lavery

Michael Leahy

 

Other elections held were for the Local Government Section and for representatives of the Association of Labour Councillors on the NEC and the NPF.