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BECTU vote on New Labour link a step forward
The decision by BECTU, the entertainment industries' union, to ballot members on the organisation's links with New Labour, is an important step forward in the growing discussion taking place about alternatives to the Blair government.
More than 60% voted for a motion calling for research into alternative political organisations which could pursue union interests in parliament, as well as a ballot on continued affiliation to Labour.
The vote overturned a recommendation from the union's leadership to maintain BECTU's current levels of affiiliation. The vote came as the leaders of Unison, Britain's biggest union, launched a desperate rearguard action to prevent the membership from going down the same route at the annual conference in June. General secretary Dave Prentis has pledged himself to maintain affiliation at all costs.
This follows immense pressure from members to rethink the link in the wake of foundation hospitals and other New Labour measures that undermine and privatise public services. While leaders like Prentis are struggling to show that affilation gives the union "access" and "influence", many members believe the time for change has arrived.
Meanwhile, firefighters – struggling to defend pay and jobs against New Labour – are also stepping up pressure on their own leaders. The FBU executive is desperately trying to reach a settlement with the employers before the government carries out its threat to impose a jobs and pay cutting deal on firefighters.
BECTU's vote could and should become a landmark decision in the struggle against New Labour and for deciding on future representation for trade unionists and other sections of working people. Few will disagree with the analysis that New Labour is a business-driven government that is increasingly authoritarian.
Since the illegal attack and occupation of Iraq, millions have also questioned the legitimacy of the political process that passes for democracy. The views and aspirations of the majority were sidelined and ignored in the interests of the US- British attack aimed at opening Iraq for exploitation by global corporations.
The opportunities are growing to build a movement that not only challenges New Labour but also offers an alternative in economic and political terms. We should deepen the debate about new forms of representation like Peoples Assemblies and about democratisation of ownership.
That should lead to a conference of trade unionists, social, community, youth and other organisations and individuals to take practical steps to move beyond New Labour.
Movement
for a Socialist Future
19 May 2003
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