The Tories introduced the 50% strike ballot threshold to make industrial action harder. MATT WRACK argues that a Labour government has no justification for leaving it on the statute book
THIS weekend marks the 110th anniversary of the Burston Strike School Rally in Norfolk, commemorating the longest strike in British history. In 1914, beloved teachers Tom and Kitty Higdon, both socialists and trade unionists, were dismissed by the local authorities.
In protest, their students walked out, initiating a strike that lasted 25 years. Since 1984, the rally has been an annual event, symbolising the labour movement’s strength and progressive ideas in the east of England. This year’s rally also celebrates the recent electoral shift in the region, where the Conservative Party has been replaced by Labour, Lib Dems, and Reform UK in key constituencies. The rally will draw thousands, reflecting the changing political landscape.
The east of England has seen a significant political transformation, with Labour now holding 31 seats, the Lib Dems seven, and Reform UK securing three. The region also has a Green MP in Waveney Valley. In many areas, Reform UK has become a significant force, even in constituencies they didn’t win, demonstrating the shifting political allegiances. Despite the high engagement in political activities during the election, voter turnout was low, with some areas like Luton and South Bedfordshire seeing less than 50 per cent participation.
Rising temperatures and human activity are making life far harder for these vital pollinators. ALEX DITTRICH explains
In Part 4 of her look at the Chinese revolution JENNY CLEGG addresses the relationship between the Peasant Movement and the National Movement
LOTTE COLLETT welcomes the arrival of a new party for the left, a vehicle for councils to finally fight for progressive policies on housing, green spaces and public facilities, rather than administering cuts and misery from central government
Our charter’s demands for fair pay, affordable housing and environmental security will recruit working-class youth into the political struggle for socialism, emulating the success of the Women’s Charter, writes YCL general secretary GEORGINA ANDREWS


