In a time when political integrity and public trust are paramount, we, Dr. Anne Gwinnett and David Henwood, have taken the bold step of addressing an open letter to the activists of the Oxfordshire Labour Party. This letter, dated June 26, 2024, comes in response to a series of troubling events and actions by the Labour Party’s senior leadership, which have led to mass resignations and disillusionment among its members.
Why This Letter Was Sent
The letter highlights several critical issues that have plagued the Labour Party, particularly under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer together with Party Chair and Oxford East MP candidate, Anneliese Dodds. These issues include:
1. Dishonest Treatment of Members and Supporters: The Labour Party has exhibited a pattern of purging those who hold differing views, effectively stifling internal democracy. This is exemplified by the treatment of Diane Abbott and the situation in Banbury, where the party allegedly supported an opposition candidate against their own to marginalize left-leaning members.
2. Callous Stance on Humanitarian Issues: Starmer’s statement supporting Israel’s right to withhold essential services from Gaza’s citizens, amid a dire humanitarian crisis, was not only shocking but also indicative of a broader lack of empathy and moral clarity. This stance has led to significant resignations within the party, including high-profile councillors and party officials.
3. Undue Influence of the Party Whip: The letter criticises the top-down approach within Labour, where MPs and councillors are forced to follow the party line, often against the wishes and needs of their local communities. This has led to accusations of bullying and the imposition of unpopular policies.
4. Controversial Policies and Public Discontent: Policies such as the Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) have caused widespread discontent. Dodds’ ambivalent stance on such measures, which are seen as harmful to local businesses and communities, further alienates the electorate.
5. Confusion Over Gender Rights: Both Starmer and Dodds have displayed inconsistency in their positions on gender rights, causing confusion and dissatisfaction among voters who seek clear and principled leadership.
What We Hope to Achieve
Our primary aim in sending this letter is to provoke critical reflection and prompt decisive action among Labour activists. We urge them to:
Reassess Their Alignment: Activists need to critically evaluate their continued association with a party that, according to our observations, no longer aligns with traditional Labour values of honesty, inclusivity, and social justice.
Demand Accountability: It is essential for activists to hold their leaders accountable for actions and policies that contradict the party’s foundational principles. This includes pushing for transparency and integrity in party dealings and candidate selections.
Support Humanitarian Values: The Labour Party must reclaim its moral compass, especially concerning international humanitarian issues. This involves unequivocally condemning actions that harm innocent civilians and standing in solidarity with oppressed communities worldwide.
Foster Genuine Democracy: Encouraging a culture where diverse opinions are welcomed and respected is crucial. Labour must return to being a platform for robust democratic debate and representation of varied viewpoints.
Conclusion
This open letter is an appeal to Labour activists to stand up for the values that once made their party a beacon of hope for many.
Alternatively, if Labour cannot address the concerns we have highlighted in our letter, Labour activists and members may wish to seek out a party which more accurately reflects their core values.
You can read and download our open letter here:
Dr. Anne Gwinnett and David Henwood