LAST night was a hugely disappointing result and the reasons for this are very clear.
 
On Brexit Labour got it wrong. Millions of people who know the economy, the world of work and politics in general isn’t working for them saw the move to a second referendum as a betrayal and the final straw.
 
We must also acknowledge that for a variety of reasons the Party leadership was a factor in this result. The truth is a prolonged assault from the media has assassinated the character of a man who has devoted his whole life to helping others.

Equally we need to think seriously about where the campaign went wrong, including the failure to have a clearer narrative. But what nobody can face away from is that we have seen four years of constant attacks on Jeremy Corbyn and the membership by some MPs and Labour’s old guard, who have openly put removing Jeremy ahead of securing a Labour government.

These people have to own this result as well and the attempts to swerve any responsibility so far is indicative of the character of the individuals involved. What these people have in common with Boris Johnson is they have no real solutions to the problems this country faces and this is why we must fight to protect our policy agenda.
 
The distinct role of trade unions in the next five years will be more important than ever. We now become the first line of defence for working people and the CWU will be at the forefront of fighting for a new deal for workers, calling on the TUC to step up like never before and my simple message is this – join a union.
 
Finally, our movement is built on difficult moments. It’s not about getting knocked down. It’s about how you get back up again. We promise this government and our employers one thing – our union will not give you a moments rest.
 
Dave Ward
General Secretary