Labour has approved its ambitious election manifesto despite notable reservations and a lack of endorsement from its largest trade union backer, Unite. Here’s the full story.
Manifesto Finalised
The Labour Party recently concluded finalising its manifesto for the upcoming general election, a crucial step in defining its policy agenda before the manifesto is officially released.
Internal Tensions
Despite a smooth sign-off at the party’s “clause V” meeting, the process was marked by significant internal tensions, particularly with its crucial trade union ally, Unite.
Clause V Meeting
On Friday, June 7th, Labour’s shadow cabinet, union representatives, and the National Executive Committee (NEC) convened for the Clause V meeting, an internal event shrouded in secrecy.
Secrecy Measures
The exact location was disclosed to attendees only on the morning of the meeting to prevent leaks to the press about what would be discussed.
Applause Amid Discontent
The meeting lasted approximately six and a half hours, concluding with the manifesto receiving applause.
Unite’s Discontent
This applause, however, masked underlying discontent among some participants, notably from Unite, Labour’s most prominent trade union backer.
Unite Rejects Manifesto
Unite, one of the Labour Party’s primary backers and a major funder chose not to endorse the manifesto, citing concerns over Labour’s stance on several key worker-related issues.
Unite Leader Issues Critique
Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, articulated the union’s dissatisfaction with Labour’s positions on fire and rehire practices, zero-hours contracts, and oil and gas licences.
Cautious Optimism
One union leader spoke to the BBC about the cautious optimism and private reservations some within the trade union movement had before the event, stating, “We go into the meeting with open hearts but girded loins.”
Ambitious Policy Commitments
Despite Unite’s reservations, Labour’s manifesto outlined several ambitious policy commitments to address some of the most pressing issues facing the UK before the election.
Five Core Missions
The document centres on five core missions: the economy, the NHS, energy, education, and planning reform. Key pledges include establishing GB Energy, a publicly owned green power company, providing 40,000 more NHS appointments per week, and recruiting 6,500 new teachers to fill workforce gaps.
Palestine Recognition
Additionally, Labour committed to recognising a Palestinian state as part of a broader peace process, a policy which Labour leader Keir Starmer confirmed would be included in Labour’s manifesto.
“Viable Palestinian State”
Of the proposal, Keir Starmer stated, “That needs to be part of the process, it’s very important we have a viable Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel.”
Mixed Reactions
The clause V meeting and the subsequent approval of the manifesto elicited mixed reactions both within and outside the Labour Party.
Unite’s Financial Impact
Unite’s refusal to endorse the manifesto raised questions about its financial support for Labour’s campaign, a significant factor considering the union’s £3 million contribution to the 2019 campaign.
Momentum’s Disappointment
Furthermore, left-wing groups like Momentum expressed “deep disappointment” over the manifesto’s lack of commitment to specific social policies, such as free school meals and the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap.
“Kick Out Tory Policies”
A Momentum spokesperson stated, “We need to kick out not just the Tories, but Tory policies too.”
“Real Labour Values”
They continued, “Standing alongside child poverty campaigners and friends across the labour movement, we will continue to push for these policies, which represent the essence of real Labour values.”
Starmer Defends Provisions
Labour leader Keir Starmer defended the manifesto’s provisions: “We’ve got a very good package for working people. This is the biggest levelling up of rights at work for a very, very long time.”
“Respect and Dignity”
He continued, “This is about, for me, the respect and dignity that I think everyone should have at work. But it’s also crucial to our plan for growth.”
Tightrope Walk
Starmer’s stance on the issue has been finely honed to attempt to walk the tightrope between reassuring both party members and the public about Labour’s commitment to improving working conditions across the UK without scaring off the business community.
Historic Union Influence
Despite Labour’s desire to appeal to as wide a section of the electorate as possible, trade unions have historically played a significant role in shaping Labour’s policies and the all-important need for party funding.
Setting the Stage
The approval of Labour’s manifesto finally sets the stage for the upcoming general election, which will present the party with both challenges and opportunities.
Underlying Divisions
The absence of formal endorsement from Unite and the critical feedback from other factions within the party reflect underlying divisions that could impact Labour’s campaign.
Need for Unity
While the document’s approval signifies a unified front on paper, the underlying tensions with essential allies like Unite stress the need for coalition building within the party, especially considering the recent allegations of a “left-wing purge” taking place within the party.
Bridging Divides
As Labour prepares to launch its manifesto and campaign for the general election, it remains to be seen if Labour’s manifesto will be able to bridge the divide between internal desires and external pressures on its path to the general election.
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The post Unite Union REFUSE to Endorse Labour’s Ambitious Election Manifesto first appeared on Edge Media.
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Grant Gallacher is a seasoned writer with expertise in politics and impactful daily news. His work, deeply rooted in addressing issues that resonate with a wide audience, showcases an unwavering commitment to bringing forth the stories that matter. He is also known for satirical writing and stand up comedy.