Diane Abbott Home Office
Emily Thornbury Foreign Office
John Mc Donnell Exchequor
What’ s it like at a Labour Party Conference?
A few local people went down to Brighton in September 2017 and give us the low down on their experience...
Haslingden and Hyndburn CLP
The conference was fantastic! It was an uplifting experience, with the core theme being that of hope – for the many, not the few. There was very little controversy and all votes were carried with huge majorities, some unanimously. The conference bore little resemblance to the BBC reporting of it, particularly in relation to anti-Semitism and Europe.
Four of us went down to Brighton, Kay Jenkinson and I were delegates, with Tony and Mick having visitor passes. We went along to see Jeremy speak on the Saturday night-the place was bouncing with a real party atmosphere, and very much set the tone for the days to come.
I’ ll attempt to highlight some of the major policy statements, but as you will appreciate, I can’ t cover it all.
Diane Abbott Home Office
Terrorism-Thorough review of PREVENT strategy- not fit for purpose Policing- Tory record on policing is different from their rhetoric – 2.3 billion in cuts to police budgets – Labour will recruit 10,000 police officers.
Immigration-Tories demonised immigration. Labour to put an end to indefinite detention sentencing, guarantee the rights of EU citizens in UK, implement amendment on child refugees. Diane spoke of a fair and well managed immigration policy, shaped by enduring Labour values. Fire – Extent of failure has been symbolised by Grenfell, which was a direct consequence of deregulation of fire standards. Government must be lead agency for risk assessment – no more outsourcing to private sector. Labour pledge to appoint 3000 fire fighters and support FBU against cuts. International debate – CLP’ s and TU’ s The following were highlighted: Palestine Turkey and Kurds – political refugees Condemnation of 30 MP’ s and Brexit letter Impact of leaving customs union e. g. port of Dover
Emily Thornbury Foreign Office
Change the ways arms exports are carried out, with rules and evidence to prevent their misuse. Highlighted arms to Saudi as an example. Kier Starmer- Brexit Accused the Tories of a policy of constructive ambiguity in its approach to Brexit. Tragic for jobs, pensions and homes. He went on to highlight the LP approach which has values of cooperation and solidarity at its heart. A policy with the protection of human rights, environment, rights at work and social justice driving everything we do. Focused on an agreed position within the LP in the national interest of a progressive partnership with the EU in all areas, and a deal that retains the customs union and links with the single market.
John Mc Donnell Exchequor
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