23.10.1997

Sectarian Scargill splits left

As the SLP prepares for its congress, Scargill continues to shun left unity

The Scottish Socialist Alliance has launched its campaign for the Paisley South by-election, to be held on November 6. The local branch selected Frances Curran, a leading member of Scottish Militant Labour, as its candidate.

Last weekend saw SSA members from across Scotland working in the constituency - leafleting, canvassing and running street stalls to put the case for a working class alternative.

The suicide of the previous MP, Gordon McMaster, together with the sleaze and corruption which is surrounding the Labour Party in the west of Scotland, is likely to make this a high-profile campaign. Therefore it is a great opportunity for the SSA to build on the national impact it made through standing in 16 seats (including Paisley South) in the general election.

With the political focus in Scotland currently on corruption, one of the main planks of the SSA’s campaign will be the fight against this and the careerism that is endemic to the mainstream political parties. Standing on the slogan, ‘For a socialist MP on a workers’ wage’, Frances is committed to live on the average wage of a local worker. Not the over-inflated MPs’ salary the other candidates would accept.

Unfortunately the Socialist Labour Party has also decided to stand a candidate. From its formation the SSA has persisted in attempting to make links with SLP comrades, and this has continued after the general election. Although some SLP members in Scotland seem to be keen on the idea, Scargill continues to stamp down on any joint work or electoral agreements with other socialist organisations throughout Britain, absurdly claiming such cooperation would contravene the SLP ‘constitution’.

The result will be a split in the socialist vote. Unless Scargill’s sectarianism - in putting the interest of ‘his’ party before the interest of the working class - can be reversed, the consequences for the left will be damaging.

SSA comrades, while fighting to maximise our vote, should continue to attempt to win the SLP in Scotland to become part of the Alliance - or at least to cooperate in the interests of left unity.

Nick Clarke