Chris Bligh, RMT rail member
At my most recent RMT (transport union) branch meeting I submitted a motion calling on the branch and union to support Jeremy Corbyn at the next general election if he stood as an independent candidate against Starmer’s Labour. It also called on the union branch to encourage members to consider standing as anti-cuts candidates in the local elections taking place this May.
The debate and vote were split evenly, reflecting the uncertainty about a way forward. Those who spoke against the motion didn’t see Labour as their party but were determined to see the Tories gone.
With the vote split, the Chair had the casting vote. They supported it and gave recognition to the fact that the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC) and the Socialist Party have supported our striking members. With that it passed and will be sent to the National Executive Committee of the union for consideration. I am proud to be endorsed as a TUSC candidate, along with others from across the trade union movement, including local striking National Education Union (NEU) and University and College Union (UCU) members. We intend to stand in every ward in Plymouth.
By consistently visiting picket lines, and engaging in a dialogue with strikers, the Socialist Party has earned their respect. The same can’t be said for local Labour MP Luke Pollard. Support was given to placing a May Day greeting in The Socialist alongside Plymouth NEU Branch who will also be taking out a greeting.
