Should Labour practice good governance?

In my capacity as chair of Save the Labour Party I wrote to Dianne Hayter, chair of the Labour Party national executive committee yesterday about the proposed change to the dates for Annual Conference 2008. A decision had been taken in principle on 31 January, but pause for thought was agreed even if it was only amongst a select circle. The covering letter reads:

This sets out two principled reasons for not proceeding with the proposed change – one concerning governance,the other constitutional. We appreciate there is a risk in such an approach. We are aware there is precedent for such changes. However, the over-riding test is whether the manner in which any NEC decision is taken will help the recruitment and retention of members, or fuel increased cynicism and distrust about how the Party conducts itself.

In the absence of a specific legal code governing the affairs of our Party (which in any event we would not advocate), members rely on the NEC and, in particular, its officers to work to the highest standards of good governance.

In the light of recent experience, it is difficult to imagine that there is any alternative but to maintaining the status quo pending a thorough review of the options for Party renewal, including the role and format of Conference

To find out more about the practice of good governance, there's a good primer on Wikipedia.

Obviously my colleagues and I on the STLP committee think it's time for a stand on such matters, or is it that rules are still for little people?

Comments

[Mark McDonald]

Hi Peter

As you know, I have decided stand for the position of party treasurer. My entire candidacy is one of raising the standard of governance in the party, of breaking down the barriers to internal democracy and of empowering the NEC as the governing body of the party.

The change of conference dates is not necessarily a bad thing as it allows more debate contributions from delegates. Yet the lack of consultation is indicative of the professional party's attitude towards the opinions of grassroots members.

I am troubled by the way party members have been progressively divorced further from policy making, a situation that must be rectified if Labour is to remain a political party. I would not want to see the party become a supporters club. However, I am seeking a mandate for good governance within the party which requires people from across the party to have faith in the treasurer. This means that I would seek not to be factional either in opposition to or in support of the leadership of the party.

I would welcome your comments and suggestions.

Mark McDonald

[Peter Kenyon]

Dear Mark

Many thanks for getting in touch.

A good starting point would be the LabOUR Commission Interim Report, it sets out a 10-point renewal plan based on both qualitative and quantitative research.

Did it inspire you to stand?

If it passed you by previously, I would be interested to know what you think about its recommendations when you have had a chance to read it.

http://www.labourcommission.org.uk