POLITICAL SCHOOL

RMT helpline 0800 3763706 :: october 2008 :: RMTnews 19 The twelve political school delegates from around the country were greeted by the ever-friendly Ray Spry-Shute who allocated each of us to our comfortable en-suite rooms, followed by directions to the local pub so we could all get to know each other. The course began with Professor Roger Seifert on employment markets and the relationship between trade unions and the Labour Party, bringing up a couple of contentious issues, not least his insistence that young people have a deep interest in contemporary politics. Our general view was that the Professor perhaps confines himself to more educated youth and that RMT is absolutely correct on its position with regards the Labour Party. RMT general secretary Bob Crow addressed the school, covering the history of the union and links to the Labour Party and why we were no longer members. This was followed by a Q & A session where amongst issues raised by rail and bus workers, the seafaring members was the recruitment of foreign nationals. One of the highlights of the course was a presentation from Justice For Columbia by the incredibly brave Juan Carlos Hurtado, ably translated by Victor Figueroa, on the humanitarian problems facing the Columbian people under the despicable US- backed regime. The students gave him a thoroughly deserved standing ovation. The second highlight was delivered by Paul Meszaros of the Hope not Hate campaign. The Searchlight campaigner ran a workshop to design an electoral campaign, fighting the BNP in a fictional town where racial tensions had been used by the BNP following an incident involving some Asian youths. Based on real events, it was both thought provoking and a relief to know that the strategies and ideas we came up with closely resembled what Searchlight actually did. In this instance the BNP were thoroughly beaten, but we must always be on our guard. RMT political officer James Croy discussed campaign strategies, part of which involved coming up with ideas to promote the issues affecting the transport industry. Very entertaining for all concerned especially when it came to presenting our agendas. All this was done in good humour whilst never forgetting the seriousness of a situation in which we face European Court Judgments and UK anti-union laws to erode workers rights and deny the public an affordable and accountable public transport system. There was also a video link address by Kelvin Hopkins MP on the dangers posed by the Lisbon Treaty and another Q&A session. We also had the pleasure of listening to Brian Denny of Trade Unionists Against the EU Constitution (www.tuaeuc.org) on the campaign. RMT press officer Derek Kotz gave an informative talk on dealing with the press and campaigning. Apparently, it’s not all doom and gloom, though we beg to differ in this instance. Then onto Parliament, as guests of John McDonnell MP our Parliamentary convenor, and a tour of the Palace of Westminster including the House of Commons. John found time to chat and take questions despite the fact that he had an election to deal with in his own constituency that day. We also bumped into Boris Johnson whom we greeted with a wall of RMT bags but we refrained from asking him about his plans for a no strike agreement on the Tube. On the last day we discussed what we had gained from the course and where it might be improved. More or less everyone felt that the course content was very good. Some felt that Roger Seifert’s academic approach and perceived monopoly on the truth were a bit much, but again the majority felt that his input was essential. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this course which provides a greater understanding of politics and the role of trade unions. Finally, trade unionists should support the great work done by Paul Meszaros and brave Juan Carlos Hurtado. Some of us give up time and effort to fight for a fairer society. Juan Carlos may forfeit his life, could you? If, like me, you think you couldn’t then support Justice for Columbia. • The next RMT political school takes place from 15 – 20 March 2009. The school is open to all RMT members whatever your level of experience. If you are interested in applying contact your Branch Secretary, or for more information get in touch with James Croy at j.croy@rmt.org.uk or ring 020 7529 8822. Merchant seamen Simon Davis and Terry Jones report from RMT’s political school at the union’s education centre in Doncaster POLITICAL SCHOOL