Meeting held on 16th October 2024 at 7.30pm
Seven people were present. Four gave their apologies.
The possible fallout from the result of the U.S. election was discussed. It was thought that a Trump victory would impact negatively on both the Ukraine and Gaza situations. A Trump White House, it was felt, would attempt to force some sort of settlement probably including the removal of Zelensky and the ceding of territory in the East and that only a pro-Putin government in Kyiv would be acceptable to Russia. In contrast Trump would be expected to strongly support Netanyahu’s policies in Gaza and the wider Middle East. The U.N. appears dysfunctional and seems to be ignored by the wider international community. The deeply flawed electoral system in the U.S.A. was not felt to hold out much hope for an acceptable resolution. It was suggested that the BBC is being too cautious in presenting events in Gaza, not helped by the Israelis not allowing access to foreign journalists.
In the UK, despite the right wing press predictably launching personal and political attacks on Starmer and his Ministers, it was felt that the Labour Government was making acceptable progress in their first 100 days. A start has been made on a 5 year, or 10 year programme of national renewal. There was some confidence that Rachel Reeves would be able to address issues of inequality in taxation and spending over both the short and long term. There was some disquiet on the emphasis on ‘growth’ which may or may not be ethically based.
It was felt that the weaknesses in democratic representation need addressing not least to counter the rise of right wing Populism. With the Tory leadership heading in that direction this may be a major challenge for the centre/left.
Next Meeting. Wednesday 20th November.