13.03.1997

Vauxhall CSLP: lift the threat

The threat of closure still hangs over the head of Vauxhall Constituency Socialist Labour Party for daring to discuss policies of which Arthur Scargill disapproves

In a letter to the branch secretary, dated February 20, Scargill implied that councillor Ian Driver, Vauxhall’s prospective parliamentary candidate, agreed with any move against the CSLP:

“I am aware after reading a letter from Ian Driver that he has made clear that he supports and abides by the constitution of the Socialist Labour Parry, in which case he would not be in a position to support the ‘daft policies’ contained in the material attached to this letter” (see Weekly Worker March 6).

The letter below, which also complains about the violent behaviour of Tony Goss, should dispel any such idea.

Dear comrade Arthur

I am writing in connection with ‘rumours’ circulating in London that the NEC intends to close down the Vauxhall CSLP and expel a number of leading comrades from this branch.

I very much hope that these rumours are untrue and that the NEC at its meeting this coming Saturday will clear up the uncertainty over Vauxhall. These rumours and uncertainties are having an adverse impact upon the election campaign in Vauxhall. Comrades are, understandably, reluctant to put time, effort and money into the campaign if they think that their branch may soon be dissolved and leading comrades ‘voided’.

During our conversation last week I said that I believed that Vauxhall was a well-run, democratic branch, which includes many highly talented and able comrades who would be an asset to our campaign. I also said that there were a number of strong and unique local issues which could be tied into our national policies which would give us a high profile in Vauxhall. I restate these views and ask you and the NEC to put an end to the question mark over Vauxhall and give us the encouragement we need to get on with the campaign.

On a personal note, I must also say I was disappointed with the decision to ‘void’ comrade Barry Biddulph. Barry is a hard-working, dedicated and respected member of Vauxhall and his expulsion has badly affected morale in the branch. I have known Barry personally for five-six years. He has played a tremendous role as a trade unionist in Southwark council. I have no reason to believe that Barry is a member of any other organisation and I would ask you to reconsider your decision to terminate his membership.

Finally, I was most concerned about the attempted assault upon the Vauxhall branch secretary by the London election agent at the Conway Hall meeting last week. This is not the first time this person has attempted to assault fellow SLP members. It may or may not be that there was an element of provocation, but until this matter has been investigated and dealt with, my principled opposition to violence directed at comrades from within the labour movement makes it impossible for me to work with the London election agent.

I am sorry to add to what I imagine is a growing post bag, but I feel that Vauxhall with its local issues could offer the SLP a unique opportunity in the general election and beyond. Anything you and the NEC can do to dispel the mood of uncertainty and instability and deal with the problems I have raised would be very much appreciated.

Yours sincerely
Councillor Ian Driver
SLP prospective parliamentary candidate, Vauxhall