Stoke Central: Fighting for the millions not the millionaires

ON 15 March trade union reps, Stoke Socialist Party members and other supporters launched the TUSC general election challenge in Stoke Central. TUSC will give ordinary working people an opportunity to make a clear stand against the anti-working class policies of all three establishment parties and against the divisive, racist policies of the far-right BNP and National Front.

The meeting brought together union reps from Unison, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) telecoms section, the civil servants’ PCS union, pottery workers union Unity, National Union of Teachers, University and College Union. CWU postal workers including some being victimised by Royal Mail were also present. Union reps from RMT and Unite sent messages of support to TUSC.

Unison youth rep and Socialist Party member, Matt Wright, was confirmed as TUSC candidate in Stoke Central. Matt says: “I’m a student nurse, but have worked for eight years in private healthcare, I’ve seen first hand what happens when you put profit before people, and it sickens me.

Campaigning candidate

“I’m already involved in campaigns to save jobs, for decent pay and against hospital staff cuts. If elected, I will fight for the millions not the millionaires and will also take only the average wage of workers in Stoke-on-Trent. For me, representing ordinary working class people is a privilege not a career move.”

Public inquiry

TUSC supporters and Socialist Party members have already had a successful day of action in Hanley on the recent scandal of Stafford Hospital.

Over 100 people signed our petition calling for a public inquiry led by NHS workers and service users and to stop private sector leeching off the NHS. Many supported us standing a TUSC candidate in the election. 35 people also bought copies of The Socialist.

Andy Bentley Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition