'I AM ADAMANTLY against black sections. The overwhelming majority of the them. constitutionally gave separate status on the basis of colour of skin or ethnic origins. I would not give a - damn if the whole Labour Party was against me on this. This is not the case, but it is a matter of basic values.' That's what Party leader Neil Kinnock told a Times reporter the end of last week, after the positive díscrimination working party's tial support for black secbalein yev leaked in the press. The working LALLI will meet this Thursday to consider a draft report, based on proposals TINlE members and submissions Irom & varely of groups interests within the labour movement.
will be putting together a final draft for the national executive's organisation committee to consider on dille. meeting, the report will be submitted to the NEC the end of June along with the comments of the sub. committee. So, 10 June is a vital date in the battle for black sections.
The final report of the positive action Working party will take up many of ADRENS against black sections in the affir«ISWC ICI mative. For instance, the accusation of apartheid.
It is an utter travesty to claim that the demand for black self-organisation bears any relationship whatsoever _Io a system whereby a white minority enforces by law its separalaoi rt]ll jority and completely suporese black uEbIe y rights. Those opponents who so accuse black sections say such a thing to black community groups.
The fact that Kinnock's statement plays on such sentiments shows he's prepared to use the lowest level of racist arguments to reinforce the instituBlack people are among the lowest paid workers NEC are against I would be against any development which tonalised racism of the Labour Party.
Marc Wadsworth, who is a member of the positive action working party and onne alonA Otter of black sections, described Mr Kinnock's outburst as 'irritating but relevant'• Neil Kinnock isn't the Labour Party,' he said.
"t is 9 mass movemen! not just one individual. here HOTC support than ever for black sections. There are more than already established: that's more than there are workplace branches. That attests to the success and suppori ior black sections at rank and file level in the 'Kinnock, democrat, trying NeetoO Vu TeO Colo to the NEC. . I place my emphasis on the rank and file of the party. Once they stir Issue thev re convinced of, then he's got problems.
'Once party members understand what is admittedly a complicated issue. taey spoken to union and party branches trom Glascow to Brighton, that support's coming in.
'People Kinnock talk about playing by the rules, but they're prepared leyte nen IK MIA them. There disaftected black groups up and down the country who are talking about withdrawing the black VOLC ITUI Labour Party — and Kinnock's arguments will fuel moves for dependence.
*We call on the NEC to suppor their working party's report, and to present it to national party conference with a recommenvanon ror conrerence to support That's N.Y