Respect launches Southall campaign

Ealing Southall

Respect is calling a meeting at the Southall Community Centre this evening, 3rd July at 7:30pm, to launch its campaign for the Southall by-election, called for 19th July. Speakers will be George Galloway, Respect MP for Bethnal Green and Bow and John Rees, Respect National Secretary. The candidate to stand in the by-election will also be introduced.

The by-election is a chance for Respect to demonstrate that a change of leader will not mean the end of Blairism, and to the New Labour policies of war and privatisation. Brown and his cabinet have made it clear that they will not back down over public sector strikes, that there is no intention of closing the tax loophole for the rich, and that the Trident nuclear weapons system will be replaced.

The recent car bombs in London and Glasgow may make it less likely that the troops will be withdrawn in the near future. After the incidents Brown said that "we will not allow anyone to undermine our British way of life," and that "the long-term fight against terrorism would be a battle of hearts and minds, and withdrawal from Iraq would not bring it to an end."

It is clear that under Brown neo-liberalism is here to stay, unless it can be challenged by ordinary people. A good result for Respect in the by-election will prove that people want an alternative to Blairism.

Activists wanting to help out with the Southall election campaign should contact the Respect National Office on 0870 850 1978. There will be leafleting every weekday from 11am and 6:30pm, meeting at Southall station.

Respect will be maximising its efforts for the by-election, drawing on the help of all London members and beyond, and we need resources to do this. All donations in support of the campaign are much appreciated.

RESPECT