The coalition of forces which united to oppose PiP and Mandeleson’s NEC candidature should be preserved and broadened to stand candidates for the NEC Constituency places and the Policy Forums. In the past the left has stood to raise the banner of socialism during these elections.
Of course this is still important but the priority is to unite all those who believe in a democratic Party based on its link with the trade unions and policies that will redistribute wealth in society. This will include comrades well to the right of LLB. We must start discussions now to plan a slate that wins backing from Labour Reform, the Campaign for Labour Party Democracy, the Labour Womens’ Action Committee and the Network of Socialist Campaign Groups. Each group should reach an agreement on who to back. Endorsement from the Socialist Campaign Group of Labour MPs should be sought.
At least half the slate must be women, but we must also ensure a geographical spread. In order to win places, and this is very much a possibility, candidates should be experienced in the structures of the Party and be willing to stand regularly if not elected first time.