The pandemic was a world-shattering turning point. All the weaknesses of capitalism were laid bare in 2020. But in few countries more so than Britain.

The nightmare which began in 2020 has not been limited to public health, but has infected the already-ailing world economy - with British capitalism the worst hit of all the major capitalist powers.

Working-class and young people have already suffered hugely as the bosses try to pass on the pain. The bare-bones Brexit deal will only make things worse for Britain's capitalist rulers.

Boris Johnson's Tory government has been completely exposed for its incompetence and craven defence of profit over lives.

But Keir Starmer's Labour offers no opposition whatsoever. Britain's working class has no political voice - and desperately needs to build for a new, independent, mass workers' party.

Already this year, the trade unions have overturned the government by forcing part-closure of schools.

And young people showed they are ready to explode in protest in last year's Black Lives Matter movement.

British capitalism is not well. Meanwhile, Britain's working class is angry - but lacks political organisation and leadership.

This episode of Socialism look at Britain in 2021: a new era of capitalist crisis.

Available on all major podcast platforms, including those below.

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The coronavirus crisis has laid bare the class character of society in numerous ways. It is making clear to many that it is the working class that keeps society running, not the CEOs of major corporations.

The results of austerity have been graphically demonstrated as public services strain to cope with the crisis.

The government has now ripped up its 'austerity' mantra and turned to policies that not long ago were denounced as socialist. But after the corona crisis, it will try to make the working class pay for it, by trying to claw back what has been given.

The Socialist Party's material is more vital than ever, so we can continue to report from workers who are fighting for better health and safety measures, against layoffs, for adequate staffing levels, etc.
When the health crisis subsides, we must be ready for the stormy events ahead and the need to arm workers' movements with a socialist programme - one which puts the health and needs of humanity before the profits of a few.

Inevitably, during the crisis we have not been able to sell the Socialist and raise funds in the ways we normally would.

We therefore urgently appeal to all our viewers to donate to our Fighting Fund.

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From: Article posted to home page Notebook, 18 January 2021: Brief articles and notes on the Socialist Party website

Latest Socialism podcast: The outlook for class struggle in Britain in 2021

This episode of Socialism look at Britain in 2021: a new era of capitalist crisis.

Available on all major podcast platforms, including those below.

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Donate to the Socialist Party

Finance appeal

Inevitably, during the crisis we have not been able to sell the Socialist and raise funds in the ways we normally would.

We therefore urgently appeal to all our viewers to donate to our Fighting Fund.