courts showed the background to the 1981 report - the death of ten hunger strikers and the of nationalism since the twenties. But by recommending united Kingdom, the NEC report sidestepped the the central issue at the time - that nationalist struggle cannot be equated to Although the demands of the hunger strike were not later republican status having been convicted of 'special' (scheduled) offences in 'special' (Diplock) courts -widely understood and Since 1981, the Labour Party has, through successive conferences deependefend fundamental civil liberties. It has reaffirmADOUSI the Prevention of Terrorism Act. It has callred for the end to use, manufacture and olastic baton rounds. It has called for the end of sexLabour's policy since 1981 has been that a future government, whilst maintaining direct rule would seek to modify the form of rule in co-operation with Dublin government in order to prepare for more wide-ranging change at some unspecified point in the future. We argue that the state of Northern Ireland established by partition is fundamentally incapable of reform, and that a future Labour government committed to maintaining direct rule will be unable to defend basic human rights and aberties. let alone introduce tar. reaching reform.
We believe the only policy option for a Labour Party committed to support Irish unity and independence, for a complete military withdrawal. We believe this policy is in the best interest of the overwhelming majority of Irish and British people, regardless of religion present allegiances. per cent voted to break from the United Kingdom; we can find no advantage that has been gained by working people in either island. The only exception to this being a section of the Irish working viass in the the north east whose loyalty to the British crown has been purchased under the impression that their lot has improved by virtue of social, economic and political discrimination against Catholics.
The phrase tuppence ha'penny looking down on tuppence' has often used to describe this spurious 'privilege. The elevation of this minority to a majority in the Six County state through partition; the continuing support given it through the connection the constitutional guarantee, prevents northern testants looking toward the future of have created mentality.
The disadvantages of partition for