Organising to win PLUS - DAVID EVANS PG 05 - Labour South East
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LABOUR SOUTH EAST MEMBERS MAGAZINE SPRING 2021
Organising to win
PLUS
DAVID ANGELA CHRISTINE TAN DHESI
EVANS RAYNER MCANEA PG 17
PG 05 PG 06 PG 05
140350_21 Reproduced from electronic media, promoted by Ellie Buck, (Acting) Regional Director on behalf of
Labour South East, both at Labour South East, 2nd Floor, Southside, 105 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QT
THANKS TO OUR MAIN SPONSORS:
CWU, COMMUNITY AND UNISON FOR THEIR SUPPORT WITH THIS MAGAZINE
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 2
THE SOUTH EAST MAY
SEEM LIKE THE TORY
HEARTLANDS, BUT
IT’S WHERE LABOUR
GOVERNMENTS ARE
DELIVERED.
I’m really encouraged by the work of In the 2019 local elections we took
the South East region. Gravesham Council and there was a
net gain of seventy seats throughout
In the 2017 General Election, against the South East.
all odds, the South East delivered an
extraordinary result for our Party in This is an excellent track record, and
Westminster – doubling their MPs by I commend the work of the regional
taking four seats from the Tories. office and our members across the
region.
No-one would’ve thought that Labour
could take Canterbury, a seat that As you know, this year sees the
had been blue for almost 185 years, largest series of elections we’ve seen
or Portsmouth South – a constituency outside of a General Election.
that had never returned a Labour
candidate. These are extremely challenging times.
I know it feels strange not being able
The South East proved that nowhere to campaign like we’re used to, but I
is off limits for Labour. want to encourage members to try out
Dialogue – our online ‘phonebank.
I’m proud to be part of a movement
with such committed activists who
Every local victory
And despite a national swing against
us, the South East held onto all of There are some key areas for the
have a strong record of winning.
puts us a step
our Parliamentary seats in the 2019 upcoming elections: Crawley, Milton Every local victory puts us a step
General Election and even increased Keynes, Southampton and Kent closer to winning the General Election closer to winning
majorities. County Council. in 2024.
It’s not just in Parliamentary elections There’s plenty of information about David Evans,
the General
where the South East have proven
themselves, either.
Dialogue on the Party’s website and in
the rest of this issue.
General Secretary of the Labour
Party Election in 2024.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 3
IMPORTANCE
OF THE SOUTH • Outstanding by-elections
EAST IN OUR
It will be an election like no other so I
would encourage you to do three things
to play your part:
Register for a postal vote – it takes five
ELECTIONS
minutes and means you can vote over a
two week period.
Share online – whether it is your local
MP, councillor, PCC candidate or any
other Labour voice sharing on social
BY VINCE MAPLE, media can really make the difference in
LEADER OF MEDWAY LABOUR & COOP GROUP making sure as many people as possible
AND CHAIR OF LABOUR SOUTH EAST REGIONAL BOARD hear what we are saying.
Pick up the phone – the Dialogue system
is now better than ever, easy to use
Hello and welcome to the new edition
of our brilliant South East Members “Labour Party putting Labour values of solidarity and
collective endeavour into practice.
(it must be because even I can get it
working!) and is a great opportunity
Magazine – there has been lots of
great feedback about the first edition members and Due to last year’s delayed elections it
means every single person across the
from the comfort of your home play
your part in the election campaign.
and hopefully you will find this both
informative and entertaining. activists have region will be able to vote. We will have
If you can do one, two or all three of
• All county council elections – 6 those things that would be fantastic.
We are of course in the middle of a
global pandemic which means some been doing some authorities
Finally a huge thank you to our small
very challenging time – we have lost
Labour members and councillors amazing things • All Police and Crime Commissioner
elections – 5 authorities
but incredibly hard working team of
Labour South East officers who continue
to CoVid19 in the South East, all our to be there to support members across
collective thoughts are with everyone
impacted by these tragic losses.
in communities • All outs in 4 authorities, including the the region, CLP officers who have kept
newly created Buckingham Unitary things going online, our Labour MPs
Through this most challenging times across the region.” Authority and Councillors and my colleagues of
the Regional Board in these challenging
Labour Party members and activists • 23 local authorities up in 3rds
have been doing some amazing things times.
in communities across the region – • 3 local authorities with halves Stay Safe.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 4
THE CASE FOR OUR UNIONS
HAS NEVER BEEN STRONGER
BY CHRISTINA MCANEA,
GENERAL SECRETARY, UNISON
It is a great privilege to have been
elected by UNISON’s 1.3m members
selfless in their service, and who have
been there for us in our times of need “These public
to be general secretary. I’m especially and grief.
aware of the responsibility that comes
with this role, especially now as we face These public service champions need a
service champions
Labour government more than ever, and
one of the most challenging times for
public services, our union and our whole in the South East we have much to do. need a Labour
society.
The case for unions - and our Labour
As this year's local and police and crime
commissioner elections approach, government more
Party - has never been stronger. we must be bold. The opportunity to
UNISON members have worked
re-build local services with a renewed
emphasis on support for those
than ever, and in
tirelessly over the past year. They have
been there in our time of need, healing
who have been left behind must be
grasped. Supporting those who have the South East we
and supporting communities, from suffered the most from over a decade
hospitals to care homes, waste teams to
schools.
of austerity in local government and
health services is crucial.
have much to do.”
I have never been prouder to represent Every newly elected Labour councillor That's tackling low pay and a lack of
these amazing people. counts, whether they are in Milton investment in social care – and building
Keynes or Tunbridge Wells, the voices a national care service. Properly funding
And it will be these tireless public of our members and public service I hope all Labour Party members
local government. Protecting our NHS,
service workers – in health, social care, workers must be heard in every council across the South East join us in our call.
not just during a pandemic, but always.
local government, energy, education, chamber. That’s why we back Labour’s Together we can fight to re-build local
and police and justice – that help us to commitment – through Run to Rebuild And ensuring the public servants who've services and raise the employment
rebuild communities in the years ahead. – to get more key workers selected as done so much to protect, support, standards of those that work in them.
It has been workers across the public Labour candidates, giving voice to the educate and care for us all receive the Together, we can build a better, fairer
sector that have given up so much, priorities of UNISON members. pay awards they so richly deserve. country.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 5
Firstly, I hope that you and your loved
ones are keeping safe and well in these “We want to
incredibly challenging times.
Last time I wrote to you, I spoke about
build a fairer, more
equal society.”
how I and Keir made a commitment
to do whatever it takes to win the
next election. Winning the next
election starts in every region, in every
corner of the country and in all of our
communities. The pandemic which People are worried about our NHS, the
has caused so much heartache and future of their jobs, and their children’s
devastation has shown us once again education. We need to be reaching
the importance of Labour in every level out, listening to their concerns, and
of government. showing what a difference Labour can,
and does, make.
Up and down the country, Labour
councils and Labour councillors have We are all members of the Labour
been on the frontline, defending our Party because we want to build a
communities against the very worst fairer, more equal society. But as I
impacts of COVID. And our fantastic have been telling our Shadow Cabinet
members have been volunteering in and MPs, we can’t do that if we are not
foodbanks, helping their neighbours, talking to voters directly every single
championing our key workers and week
standing up for our Labour values. The South East Region are putting on
Across the South East, we have a Dialogue phone banks every week. It
crucial set of elections in 2021. They doesn’t matter if you have never done
are a real opportunity for us to take it before, there will always be someone
the fight to the Tories and make the on hand to guide you through every
case for a better future. But the fight step of the way.
won’t be easy, and we need every So I am asking you today, to join me
single member to be a part of it.
A MESSAGE FROM
and pledge to making calls for Labour.
As we can’t go out and campaign, we For more information on using
ANGELA RAYNER, need to be hitting the phones and
keeping in touch with voters and
Dialogue, or to sign up to a session,
please email the South East team –
DEPUTY LEADER OF THE
our communities. The party’s phone southeast@labour.org.uk
banking system – Dialogue – is a great
LABOUR PARTY
way to do this. I have been using it Stay safe, and I look forward to joining
myself and having great conversations. you campaigning soon.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 6
PHONE BANKING ACROSS THE SOUTH EAST:
In the run up to the Local Elections on the 6th of May, councils across the South East are running phone banking sessions.
As we cannot campaign in our usual way, it is important we call as many voters in key councils across the region to deliver Labour
councils where we can! There are phone banks most days of the week as we build towards the elections in May.
MONDAYS: TUESDAYS: WEDNESDAYS: FRIDAYS: SATURDAYS: SUNDAYS:
MILTON KEYNES – MILTON KEYNES – REGIONAL PHONE MILTON KEYNES – REGIONAL – OXFORD –
15.30 – 16.45 19.00 – 20.00 BANK – 16.30 – 18.00 10.30 -12.15 11.00 – 13.30
https://events.labour.org.uk/ https://events.labour.org.uk/ 18.30 https://events.labour.org.uk/ https://events.labour.org.uk/ https://events.labour.org.uk/
https://events.labour.org.uk/
SOUTHAMPTON – ADUR & WORTHING KENT – 11.00 – 12.15
18.00 – 19.15 PHONE BANK – https://events.labour.org.uk/
https://events.labour.org.uk/ 18.00 – 19.00
https://events.labour.org.uk/
HASTINGS –
11.00 – 12.30
https://events.labour.org.uk/
CRAWLEY –
15.30 – 17.00
https://events.labour.org.uk/
While it’s important we campaign in key areas, there is campaigning across the region – you can find all phone banks via
our events tool here https://events.labour.org.uk/
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 7
IMPORTANCE OF SIGNING
UP TO A POSTAL VOTE • How do I apply to vote by post?
BY COUNCILLOR JACQUI RAYMENT, •
APPLYING FOR AN EARLY VOTE IN FIVE EASY STEPS:
Only one
person can
Applicat
ion to vo
te by po
st
1
DEPUTY LEADER AT SOUTHAMPTON CITY COUNCIL
CAPITAL apply to
LETTERS. vote usi
Complete the enclosed form. send it bac When you
have com
ng this for
m. Please Form B
k in the self pleted eve write in BLA
sealing env ry section CK INK and
1 About elope. and sign use
you ed the for
m yourse
AND CABINET MEMBER FOR BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Surname lf,
3 Addres
2
s for bal
lot paper
Please sen
Put it in the freepost envelope. First nam d my ballot
es (in full paper to:
) Address
Your full
address
(where you
are registe
3
red to vot Postcode
Pop it in the post and return it to your council no later than
e)
5pm 11 working days before an election.
Postal voting has always been will be in come the elections. We need to up and if not, why? Part of
The reason
I would like
address, my ballot
rather tha paper sen
n my reg t to this
istered add
ress is:
something we have pushed in get the message across that it is safe to that conversation needs to 4
If there’s anyone else in yourPos
household who would like
tcode
to register for a postal vote, they can go to 4 Your
date of bir
Southampton with different levels of vote, and postal voting is the safest way be about how safe it is to
Daytime th and dec
https://earlyvote.labour.org.uk telephone
or
Declarat
ion: As far laration
mobile num as I know,
ber (option are true the
al) and accura
false info te. I unders details on this for
Email add rmation tand tha m
success. We acknowledged many years for all involved including election staff. use a postal vote and how
ress (option on convict on this for t to provid
m is an offe e
When the election comes, your ballot paper al) ion by imp
5
will be sent to you a fine. risonment nce, pun
ishabl
of up to
in the post to complete. You can send it back by post or take it 2 years and e
Date of bir /or
ago that getting people to vote by post much safer it is for them in
to a polling station on election
2 Hoday
w itself. ‘DD MM
th: Please
write you
long do you YYYY’ in the r date of
I want to want a pos black box birth
tal vote for black ink
In my role I’ve been talking to the
vote by pos ? . es below
referendum t at all ele , using
was a key part of election success. the current conditions to
s (tick one ctions or
box only): Date of birt
h
More information
elections team to understand what we
until further
notice
With the 2020 election postponed, this not have to go to a polling
(perma
If you need more forms or have any questions about voting by post, go tot postal
nen
vote)
https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or contactforyour electoral
the ele registration office.
ctions or referen
can expect locally and even nationally,
held on dums to
be Signature
year has never been more important, station. Using a postal vote
Electoral Registration Officers will only use the information you provide for electoral purposes. They will look after personal information : Sign bel
ow, keepin
securely and will follow the Data Protection Act 2018. Electoral Registration Officers will not give personal information about you to anyone
for the g within the
else or another organisation unless they have to by law. period D
M grey border
.
I’ve arranged the monthly catch up
Y
from
engaging with the membership and this year is safe and easy in to
D
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Y
indeed the wider electorate to get them with our Electoral Returning Officer every way.
D
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to use a postal vote. (the ERO), giving us an opportunity to 14359_21 Promoted by XXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXX XXXX XXX XXXX XXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXX.
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FOR OFF
ICE USE If you are
If you no longer wish to receive communications from the Labour Party, please email mailto:donotcontact@labour.org.uk or write to The
ONLY unable to
exchange ideas and ensure that we are The Council has taken out
Poll
Labour Party, Labour Central, Kings Manor Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6PA. For more information about how we use your data, please refer
ing district: sign this
to labour.org.uk/privacy-policy your Electo form, ple
Date rece ral Registr ase contac
ived: ation Offi t
Elector num cer.
ber:
Date add 5 Date
We know from experience that we do doing all we can to drive up interest and paid ads explaining about postal voting
ed: of applica
tion
Today’s dat
e
much better when we have high postal get people to use a postal vote. This and how safe it is to cast a vote safely.
D
M
Y
vote returns. In past campaigns we dialogue keeps the council focused on It has to be recognised that some Southampton
have hand-delivered the postal vote how important it is to get postal voters individuals still don’t feel that it is a safe most Wards have a
forms, especially to all our members and help us to understand the situation way to vote and we need to give them Facebook page along with the party
and known Labour supporters as a across Southampton. this reassurance, it cannot be stressed pages where we’ve targeted Facebook
separate exercise to door knocking. We enough in your messaging about the ads on how and why postal voting is
have also used a Labour MP to do mail We now have a page on our Council huge amount of work that has been important. Those ads have been shared
outs encouraging people to get involved website where people can directly go done to ensure compliance and to stop hundreds and hundreds of times far
and more importantly to sign up for that to sign up, we have enclosed freepost fraud. PV is a safe way to ensure you’re and wide; a very effective way of getting
postal vote. envelopes in our direct mails so it able to vote and don’t miss out on the the message out there.
doesn’t cost them anything to return the day due to any unexpected issues. Of
This year more than ever they will come application. Making it easy for people course, it also means less people coming This year, gives us the opportunity to
into their own and it will be important to apply when the direct mail has gone into the polling stations, ensuring our encourage and drive up the number
to get people signed up early, we have out, we follow this up with a phone call election staff are safer on the day. of people that sign up for postal votes.
a new landscape where no activities where we can see if they’ve signed up Once they’ve signed up it carries on year
taking place has meant lower contact and if not why not. Once the direct mail One change is of course the use of social after year, making our job as canvassers
rates and less opportunity to engage. has gone out, we will follow up with a media and we know it plays a huge and Councillors a little bit easier and
We don’t know what state the country phone call to find out if they’ve signed part in getting the message out. Here in ensuring on the day we get the vote in.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 8
CWU SOUTH EAST
POLITICAL COMMITTEE
SUPPORTING LABOUR.
southeastregion@cwu.org
South East Political Secretary: Paul Carpenter
southeastregion@cwu.org 07739 182687
Chair: John Sones
johnSones.cwu@hotmail.com 07990 733047
South East Regional Secretary: Paul Carpenter
southeastregion@cwu.org 07739 182687
JOIN THE
CWU TODAY
0800 731 7434
joinunion@cwu.org
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 9
GMB Union members within British Gas
Vaccinate
have been standing up to their bosses
Britain Campaign
all over the South East and saying NO
Copytactics.
to their Fire & Rehire and image tbc
Our members ARE British Gas
Our members ARE GMB
Join GMB today at www.gmb.org.uk/join
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 10LOCKDOWN AND VIRTUAL POLICY FORUMS A message from your NPF Reps
Carol Hayton – NPF Rep: ‘ I think
the resource hub is a useful
innovation. I am less sure about
what appears to be a move to focus
discussion on specific areas of
by Carol Hayton NPF Rep policy. Submissions that we receive
carolhayton@btinternet.com indicate that members are keen to
see progress made towards
progressive policies across all policy
and at meetings of the Forum. We are area. I would, therefore, encourage
there to ensure that your views are Party units to continue to send in
heard in the policy discussions. their comments on all policy matters’
The Resource Hub set up on the Karen Constantine – NPF Rep:
website provides helpful information ‘Since Covid and the suspension of
on how to get involved; so we hope Branch and CLP meetings, there has
members and CLPs officers will been more call for NPF members to
make use of these resources. If you join CLP meetings via ‘Zoom’. This
would like support with local policy format has been adopted with
discussions please contact your reps, enthusiasm and skill by many
contacts details are listed below. In the members. It has provided an ideal
meantime here are a few updates to extra element to the policy forum
give you a flavour of recent NPF activity. and policy making process. There are
of course equality issues to consider.
Your 7 Regional Reps are: Not everyone can use Zoom. CLPs
Gemma Bolton should monitor this carefully and try
After each election the National The interim reports from the last to address any digital divide gaps.‘
Policy Forum process sets in motion round of policy consultation have gemmanadiabolton@gmail.com
a cycle of policy discussions. At the been published on the website under Alex Chapman Joyce Still – NPF Rep: ‘In the
beginning of each annual cycle, policy each commission heading. The Party is adc506@gmail.com January meeting of the health and
discussion documents from the eight asking members to submit their views social Commission the discussion
policy commissions are circulated on the policy principles included in Karen Constantine focussed on Covid and the
to Party units and published on the these documents. The Party has also karen@karenconstantine.co.uk experiences highlighted from policy
National Policy Forum website, www. set out a work plan for each policy Dan Dobson research and submissions from
policyforum.labour.org.uk. Members commission, these detail the policy ddobson_23@hotmail.co.uk members. There were found to be
are invited to submit their views as areas that will be discussed at each substantial regional differences in
Joy Gough the proportion of the population
individuals or collectively on how commission meeting. Members are
joygough@gmail.com who are clinically extremely
policies in each commission can be invited to provide their submissions in
developed. To ensure that the Labour line with these plans. Carol Hayton vulnerable to Covid-19, and studies
Party manifesto represents the policy carolhayton@btinternet.com have shown that older adults asked
aspirations of all sections of the Party, In our region we have seven to ‘shield’ experienced higher levels
representatives who are elected by Joyce Still of depression, anxiety, loneliness
it is really important that members get
members and affiliates to represent joyce.still7@gmail.com and a reduced quality of life.’
involved.
our region in NPF policy commissions
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 112024 CLUB
Next year there are an unprecedented number of elections across
the UK, every person in the South East will have at least one vote on
the 6 May 2021.
By signing up to our 2024 club you're helping Labour South East build
back support in key areas that will put Keir and Labour into Number 10.
The support of 2024 club members is a crucial resource needed to help
finance our campaigns.
As a member of the 2024 club you'll be entered into a quarterly draw for
special bespoke prizes, as well as updates on how your money is being
used to help put Labour in power.
laboursoutheast.org.uk/2024-club/
Help Labour
South East build
back support in
key areas that
will put Keir
and Labour into
Number 10.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 12CANVASSING
IN CRAWLEY
THE IMPORTANCE OF CAMPAIGNING IN A TARGET AREA
By Andy Troke, volunteer campaign organiser in Crawley
'Way back at my first General I got a big welcome & was soon
Election in 1974, yes I canvassed out helping with their campaign
for Harold Wilson!, Old Comrades team leafleting & knocking on
tried to tell an indignant 17 year doors, but what really impressed
old secretary of Dulwich LPYS that me was that here was a Labour
"without power, principles were Council putting Labour Values
useless’, only through ‘electoral into practice. Against all odds,
representation" could we turn they were not cutting services,
Labour Values into a reality for they were building council homes
those whom our party was and importantly for a person
created for. of my age they still had free
public loos!
Fast forward 40 years living now
in a very ’Blue’ area of Sussex‘ So by helping in Crawley, I feel
having just retired, I needed to that I am making a worthwhile
help somewhere that I could contribution. By campaigning for
make some difference and get Labour in my nearest target area
some exercise in. So I offered I am able to help Labour win and
to help in my nearest key seat, put our values into practice. Also, I
Crawley, where I discovered that have got some new friends & I am
Labour holds the council there, a little bit fitter!’
but only just.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 13EAST KENT HOUSING FAILURE –
BRINGING THEM BACK IN HOUSE
REPORT BY COUNCILLOR PAM BRIVIO, SHADOW PORTFOLIO HOLDER
FOR HOUSING AND HEALTH, DOVER DISTRICT COUNCIL
In 2019 it was exposed that the housing
management service run by East Kent
4. Return the service in house
“Engaging with tenants resident engagement. The majority
(81%) were in favour of the service
The Labour Groups on the four local being returned in house and only 8%
housing (EKH) was failing on several
serious compliance issues, including authorities met to consider possible and encouraging them disagreed or strongly disagreed. We are
action. All the Labour councillors proud that we encouraged participation
gas safety certificates and fire alarms.
This was of serious concern for the agreed that engaging with tenants and to participate in the in the consultation and gave a voice
safety of residents. The arms-length- encouraging them to participate in the to those who had previously reported
management-company (ALMO) that consultation would give a voice to those consultation would feeling unheard and not taken seriously.
was set up around 10 years ago as a who were directly affected by bad and
partnership by the four Tory led councils potentially dangerous housing, and give a voice to those The service was returned in house
in October. It has been a massive
was also failing financially. would help achieve the result of housing
stock being taken back under council who were directly undertaking for the local authorities
and is still a work in progress. All staff
The Labour Party launched a petition control.
about the service and councillors, MPs
and Parliamentary candidates spoke Here in Dover, it was agreed that affected by bad and appointments have been completed
with new posts created in order to be
out about the issue calling for the end
of the outsourcing. As a result, the four
we would hold a series of “drop in”
meetings for tenants, to come along to potentially dangerous able to provide a better service. Not all
authorities adopted the same structure
meet their local councillors to discuss
councils (Dover, Thanet, Canterbury and
Folkestone & Hythe) took the decision what their views were and the options. housing.” of housing management and here
in Dover, it is quite a lean structure
to consult with tenants/leaseholders A series of eight meetings were held but it was felt this was best option; if
about their views on the future housing throughout Dover and Deal and in more staff are needed then this can be
management service. The options were: Aylesham a leaflet drop was undertaken reconsidered.
for residents to contact councillors to
1. Remain with EKH discuss the situation. As the shadow portfolio holder for
great opportunity to raise the profile of
Housing and Health, I have monthly
2. Find another partner – e.g. a local Councillors met and spoke to the the Labour councillors in each ward.
meetings with officers and the portfolio
Housing Association residents that attended the ‘drop-ins’ It also resulted in the survey having a holder and I am able to ensure that the
and all the properties managed by EKH better than expected return, with Dover action being taken is resulting in a better
3. Another ALMO were leafleted, so the activity was a District returning the highest level of improved service for tenants.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 14SOUTHAMPTON LABOUR DELIVERING
THE NEXT GENERATION OF COUNCIL HOMES
homes. Too many families living in that are fit for purpose because we
cramped unfit conditions; too many still know a quality home leads to a better
becoming homeless; and too many of our quality of life.
elderly loved ones or those with learning
disabilities who struggle to find a home With a real focus on design, it is also
that meets their needs. While at the same important our homes match our green
time, in places like Southampton, we are aspirations as a Party, which is why
losing up to 150 council homes a year our new homes will be more energy
through right-to-buy. efficient; reducing energy bills (by up to
£35 a month) for our residents as well
The private market just isn’t providing as their carbon footprint.
for local people in relation to price,
tenure, and suitability. Private At a time when it is needed most, this
developers are building and converting home building programme will help
old office accommodation but failing to stimulate the economy by creating
address local housing need. over 1000 much-needed jobs and
apprenticeships and generating
This is why, as a Labour council we are an additional £78m into the wider
stepping up and filling in the gaps, by economy. Local contractors will
delivering good quality, energy efficient be sourced through our ethical
and affordable council homes. We will procurement policy. They are expected
be offering a range of affordability from pay a decent wage, offer meaningful
social rented, to affordable and shared apprenticeships and through the use
ownership options for those wanting to of modern methods of construction,
by Satvir Kaur – Shadow Cabinet Member for Culture & Homes get onto the housing ladder. diversifying the workforce in terms of
age, sex and ethnicity.
I like to believe that we all joined the Government, locally in Southampton a Housing for too long has been viewed
Labour Party because at our core Labour Council are making a difference as a commodity rather than a home As a country we have only ever met
we believe in Labour values. For me and delivering on Labour values. under the Conservatives, whereas in housing need when local Government
this includes creating a fairer society, reality, Labour knows it is linked to our has led the way and built homes that
As part of our covid recovery, Labour in life outcomes; affecting our education, people need. Local councils can help fix
where we support our poorest and
Southampton plan to build its way out employment, health and wellbeing. In the housing crisis, but we need a Labour
most vulnerable, and everyone gets a
of the current crisis, using the delivery recent months, lockdown has really Government to break the shackles that
good start in life. Making these values
of council homes as a way to help highlighted the importance of ‘the the Conservatives have imposed on
a reality within our communities is only
address the social and economic needs home’, when our homes have also us. In the meantime, we need to keep
possible when Labour are in power.
of our city. become our place of work, a classroom a Labour Council in Southampton and
While nationally we despair at the sheer or where most of our leisure activity is deliver more Labour Councils across
We all know there are too many people
incompetence, cruelty and politics spent. As part of our new council home the Country, which is why the upcoming
within our communities that just cannot
of division from this Conservative programme, we plan to deliver homes local elections are so important.
afford to rent, buy or even heat their
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 15EVERY LABOUR VOTE
COUNTS IN TORY HEARTLAND
Being a Labour councillor in Surrey Marcus Rashford’s councils to a motley array of non-
can be a lonely job and people often initiative on Tories.
ask me, ‘why do you bother? – Labour extending free
school meals? Do Some people talk of alliances but unless
never wins round here’. Whilst it’s true
Eton educated you believe that Labour is every Green
I am currently the only representative
Boris Johnson and or LibDem voter’s second choice, then
at County Hall; across Surrey, Labour
his supporters we have nothing to gain from standing
now has fifteen borough and district
really know what back. And Labour offers something
councillors. That’s three times what
its like to rely different - something for everyone;
we had just a few years ago and I am
on foodbanks? policies that will help all the people
similarly optimistic we can treble our
And yes, even in young and old, working and retired.
numbers come May this year.
Surrey, the richest
Surrey Labour is proud that Keir
Being a Labour councillor in a county in the UK,
Starmer is one of us (as is Emily
predominantly Conservative area we have seen a
Thornberry!) – born in Surrey. Keir
can have its ups and downs; but it huge rise in the
knows about the issues we face and
is important that we not only stand use of foodbanks
he understands the challenges that so
in every seat, but that we gain as since the Tories
many families are up against. Whilst
many votes as we can and get as took over in 2010.
we may not win control of Surrey this
many councillors elected as possible.
Of course, there year, we do have a real opportunity
Why? Is it just because I Iike being a these dedicated community servants
are other options, the Lib Dems or to become a larger, more influential
Councillor? Well maybe, but it’s more really are. As the prime minister has
the Greens and countless residents’ opposition to seriously hold the
that. In Surrey there are thousands of dallied and stalled at every stage, Keir
residents, just as there are millions of associations or independents. We know Conservatives to account.
Starmer has led the way with ideas and
people up and down the country, for from the coalition days that many
initiatives, which Boris Johnson has And remember if the Conservatives can
whom Labour is the only party that can LibDems are at heart, closet Tories
invariably picked up on, but too late and win in Bolsover and Sedgefield, Labour
address their concerns. and the Greens seem merely political
too little. can surely take council seats in Surrey
freeloaders. As for the ‘so-called’
– from Guildford to Woking, or Epsom
More people in this county are employed I recognise there are good people independents, they can be anything
to Staines!
in the care industry than any other field in every party, but overall we know really. You won’t know what’s in the
of work; an industry staffed largely by that most Conservatives have no real parcel until it’s unwrapped and then A former London MEP, Robert Evans
migrant workers, classed as ‘unskilled’ understanding of the issues ordinary it could be a nasty surprise! We say has been Surrey County Councillor
and so invariably on the minimum families face, day in day out. If they did that every day across this county as for Stanwell and Stanwell Moor since
wage. COVID-19 has shown how much why would every Conservative MP in one by one, the Tories have lost their 2013
this sector has suffered and how skilled Surrey, (bar one who was away) oppose majorities on the borough and district
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 16Fighting the Tories
in Westminster
BY TAN DHESI,
MP FOR SLOUGH, AND SHADOW RAIL MINISTER
Since being elected in 2017, it has
been a huge honour to represent
“It’s been a privilege to
Slough. Our town and the wider South
East region have a diverse range of
be able to voice local
interests and communities, so it’s
been a privilege to be able to voice
people’s concerns in
local people’s concerns in Parliament.
Recently this has become more
Parliament.”
which will boost efforts to tackle the will continue, holding this inept
important than ever.
climate crisis. As part of our transport Government to account.
As the pandemic has so tragically team, I’ve been tackling a number of
issues faced by the industry during Even in these difficult times, people
ripped through our local communities, lives, livelihoods, or the economy on
this pandemic, including the lack across our country have shown
local constituents have been in which we all depend - and it’s families,
of support for Eurostar and open incredible resilience, selflessness and
desperate need of support and advice. businesses and the general public who
access operators, HS2 and Emergency kindness to others - supporting the
Whether it’s ensuring adequate testing pay the price.
Measures Agreements for rail most vulnerable and ensuring our NHS
facilities, lobbying for further support
companies. As part of my rail brief, is protected. I’m proud of the work
for struggling businesses or assisting Throughout my time as MP, I’ve always
I’ve met with numerous unions and our Party has done locally and of the
locals stranded abroad. Coronavirus strived to ensure these voices are
organisations, and continued to push dedication of MPs, councillors and
has increased the number of people heard on a range of topics: whether
the Government to provide affordable members in this work.
contacting me manifold. My team and it’s local transport issues, the national
I continue to do everything possible to coronavirus response, or international and sustainable rail services, which
Over the coming months and years,
help resolve the vast range of issues human rights concerns. These matters would undoubtedly benefit us all
we must continue this hard work,
people are facing during this difficult are of great importance, not just to my across the region. Yet, with over
campaigning actively in local and
time, but Government support in many Slough constituents, but also to many £10bn paid to private rail companies
national elections. As we know,
cases has just not been good enough. within the South East and are essential throughout this pandemic (including
providing representation of Labour
in ensuring Labour voices are heard. covering their profits), it’s clear this
values across the region makes an
A year into this pandemic, we Tory Government’s approach is wrong
immense difference. I hope this hard
have the highest number of Covid So, when I was asked by our Party and they are still not agreeing to our
work and dedication will provide our
deaths in Europe and the deepest Leader Sir Keir Starmer in April 2020 to policy of taking rail back into public
country with a Labour Government in
recession of any major economy. The be on the Frontbench as Shadow Rail ownership. However, our calls for
the very near future.
Government’s inadequate and delayed Minister, I was honoured to amplify greater fairness, accountability and
response has failed to protect people’s Labour voices in such a crucial area, ensuring best value for the taxpayer
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 17UNIONS, NOW MORE THAN EVER
BY MAYA ILANY,
“It is vital that
CAMPAIGNS AND
POLITICAL ASSISTANT
AT COMMUNITY
workers are
UNION
placed at the
With so many people moving from the
office to the video call, as there are
heart of any post-
fewer colleagues on the factory floor
and as we continue to keep two meters Covid economy,
apart in the staffroom, it becomes
harder for us to organise and have our and are not
voice heard as a collective. As a new
working world emerges, some may
wonder where or if a trade union fits
treated as an
into their lives.
afterthought.”
However, this is not the case at all. The
simple truth is that trade unions are
more important now than they have
ever been. Without trade unions, so basic pay and ensure they didn’t unions and fought against any possible rehire” tactics or anything remotely
many vital victories for workers – literally face any further financial distress or weakening or watering down of our like it that are becoming unnervingly
millions of people – simply would not hardship during what was already an workplace protections until they backed more common.
have happened over the last year. incredibly difficult time. down.
More people working at home some
As the pandemic began, we fought to When our members were working from Thanks to the vaccines the possibility or all of the time long-term must not
secure our members adequate PPE as home our reps made sure everyone of a post-Covid world where the virus be accompanied by any reductions in
well as for Covid-secure workplaces. stayed connected. When the economic is managed seems ever more likely. rights or conditions for those or indeed
This meant that those who were unable downturn from the pandemic began We don’t yet know what this world any workers. Trade unions, now more
to work from home could work in safer to mount, we fought to protect all may look like, which presents the trade than ever, need to be the link between
environments, or those with underlying our members who work across the union movement with perhaps an even workers even when they may be
health conditions were secured the manufacturing sector. greater challenge. physically apart.
right to work from home.
When the government was planning It is vital that workers are placed at The last year has demonstrated the
When the furlough scheme began, a scrapping of workers protections the heart of any post-Covid economy, power in trade unions, and the difference
our reps fought to ensure that including the end of the working week and are not treated as an afterthought. a trade union membership can make. For
employers topped up wages to 100% directive, we joined with our fellow We cannot see adoption of “fire and the challenges that lie ahead of us, we’re
ready to take them on together.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 18MEET THE TEAM
The South East is the biggest region in the country, covering 84 constituencies and KEEP IN TOUCH
over 60,000 members. We’re a small but committed team that’s working hard to Labour South East southeast@labour.org.uk
provide the support needed to help our members across the region and challenge Second Floor, Southside, 0118 923 9400
this incompetent Tory Government. We’re here to help and support local parties 105 Victoria Street @SELabour
hard work in winning Labour victories in the South East. London, SW1E 6QT facebook.com/SELabour
ELLIE BUCK SAT BHOGAL FAYE HARTGROVES SCOTT HORNER ALEX MITCHELL EMILY KING CHRIS LEE
(Acting) Regional Director Regional Administrator Regional Organiser Regional Organiser Regional Organiser Community Organiser Regional
Communications Officer
Ellie has worked for Sat has been working Faye has worked for the Scott has worked for Alex joined the South Emily has worked for Chris first worked
the Labour party for for the South East Region Labour Party since 2013 the South East Region East Regional office in trade unions for over for the Labour Party
nearly 8 years. Starting for over a year. Before and before joining the for just over a year, the summer of 2018. 15 years before coming as far back as 2013.
in the South West working in the South South East team was a previously working for Prior to that he spent to work for Labour as a Starting as a Trainee
Region, and undertaking Regional Organiser in the MPs in London and the a number of years in Community Organiser. Organiser in the East
East Region Sat worked
secondments to Wales West Midlands and South West Midlands. When the South East working Emily is also a mum of Midlands, Chris then
in Staff services, based
and GLU, before joining West regions. A keen not fighting for a Labour as a Local Organiser two and lives in Brighton moved to the West
the South East team in Southside, Head traveller, outside of work victory, Scott is fighting and in the Campaign so at the moment she Midlands where he
at the start of 2018. Office. Sat looks after she can far too often be on the battlefields of Technology Team at spends her spare time was their RCO and later
In her spare time Ellie the arranging of the found browsing for cheap years gone by in an Labour HQ. walking on the seafront, Acting Deputy Regional
paints and bakes. She affiliation fees, budgets flights and planning her English Civil War re- or binge watching real Director.
has an extensive music and finance for the next trip. At the beginning enactment. He also Alex spends his spare crime dramas with her Outside of politics Chris
knowledge, and is the of this year, Faye started puts the rest of us to time cheering on AFC teen daughters! has been involved
region, deals with
person you want on your learning Japanese and shame as the most Wimbledon where he is with theatre and
general enquiries and
team for the music round also took up crafting active member of the a Director of the club’s performance for many
all other administrative foundation. When he’s
in a pub quiz. Known to during lockdown. When team, playing in a Gaelic years and has run his
duties. not cheering on the
be partial to a Yorkshire not trying to tick things football team. Don’t be own theatre production
tea, if your campaign is in off her travel bucket list fooled though, he’s not Dons, he can be found company.
need of some extra help, or visiting Hobbycraft, Irish but is in fact from serving up a storm in
As a life-long Trekker,
baked goods and a mug she can be found the suburbs of Salford. the kitchen (with the
Chris is delighted that
of tea are the trick to unwinding down the pub occasional glass of wine
many Labour staff also
getting something from with friends or watching in hand) – make sure
share his interest in
the regional budget. the latest true crime you ask for his infamous
‘The Final Frontier’ -
documentary with a gin Rendang recipe, you
recently enjoying his
in hand. won’t be disappointed!
first-ever trip to a Star
Trek convention with
Labour staff friends.
NEW LEADERSHIP LABOUR SOUTH EAST’S MEMBER MAGAZINE 19You can also read
