UCW exec attacks left
Socialist Organiser1982 1982-08-19Read it in the scan (PDF), scan page 19 →
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THE UCW Executive Council is planning a big clampdown on the activities of the Broad Left in the union. At the rules revision conference this coming weekend they will propose two amendments directed against 'fringe groups ', i.e. mainly the Broad Left.
In an unprecedented move, they have issued an explanation of the amendments which makes their intentions clear.
The first amendment forbids the use of the name 'Union of Communication Workers' or the initials 'UCW' in any name or title without the permission of the EC.
This, the EC explains, is an attempt to prevent 'fringe groups using the union's name to 'interfere with union policy decisions.
The second amendment outlaws the discussion of union business at any meet ing or conference unless it is authorised for such discussion under union rules or specifically by the EC.
This, the EC explains, is the second part of their attempt to stop 'fringe groups' influencing union policy 'especially during annual conference'.
The effect is a Stalinisttype ban on all unofficial meetings or groups.
It is no accident that the UCW leaders are trying to introduce rules such as these now. Recently the EC voted to support the register in the Labour Party, and they have been a mainstay of the Right in the Party.
The last rules revision conference, in contrast, relaxed the rules somewhat, for example removing the ban on direct contact between branches.
But now the EC have clearly decided to go out to smash the Broad Left.