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Marching for the NHS in Torquay

OVER 200 people marched through Torquay in protest at proposed closures and privatisation of sections of the local NHS. The march, organised by Unison, included workers from a wide range of organisations; NHS Logistics, mental health units and residential homes.

Sean Brogan, Plymouth Socialist Party

The march was clapped and cheered by shoppers in a town where people in seven out of the twelve wards exist below the official poverty line. The marchers were belying the official 'face' of a palm-lined 'English Riviera'.

Among the marchers were long-serving Labour Party members, who were quite confused as to who was responsible for these closures and privatisations. They recognised that the Labour Party in South Devon has been practically abandoned by Blair and New Labour over the past 'ten glorious years'.

There is not one Labour representative in the constituencies of Torbay, Teignbridge and South Hams at parish, district or county level. To be a socialist and still a member of the Labour Party is becoming increasing difficult. Many pin their hopes on Gordon Brown, even though it was pointed out that he has already declared his hand for PFI and a safe economy for the capitalists.

Unite and fight to save the NHS