Meeting held on Monday 16th August 2021
Six people were present. Apologies were received from four.
The news of the fall of Kabul to the Taliban led to a discussion on Afghanistan and the implications for future policy on UK interventions abroad. There was speculation as to the effect of the return to government by strict Islamic codes and whether there might be a possibility of a slightly different emphasis in the domestic sphere and on relationships with the regional powers of China, Russia and Pakistan. It was thought that in the past some short term interventions, such as that of the Blair government in Sierra Leone, proved quite successful but long term commitments to change or prop-up unstable regimes were not in the interests of the UK. Any interventions in future would probably have to be limited to economic or other forms of ‘soft power’. A left position would show solidarity with the Afghan people. Humane policies on the handling of refugees and continuing support for humanitarian efforts on the ground will be essential.
Pessimism was expressed at the lack of coherent messages from Starmer and the Labour Party leadership team on domestic issues. Some research into the views of ‘red wall’ voters which included their perceptions of ‘left behind’ communities, being despised by elites and blaming Labour Councils for the consequences of austerity may be leading to a rightward shift. Is the priority to address this or to concentrate on where Labour did well in the local elections (in Manchester, Liverpool and London)? Dismay was expressed at the expulsion from the Labour Party of members, not only for perceived anti-Semitism, but for supporting some left factions. There also appears to be evidence of the Party moving to discipline members for advocating and discussing with other parties the possibility of progressive alliances in local elections.
It was noted that the system of teacher awarded grades at A-level and GCSE resulted in a large widening of the gap in top grades in favour of Independent Schools relative to State Schools and Colleges with the resulting effect on progression and employment. It was agreed that social justice in education requires reform of the Independent/State divide. Such a task which would mean taking on the powerful Establishment which previous Labour administrations, even with a large majority, have avoided. Even the removal of charitable status from private schools has always been a step too far.
Next Meeting
Monday 20th September 2021. Venue to be decided.