During this week the Labour Party enjoyed its 99th birthday. Formed in 1916 after the trade union movement had suffered significant defeat at the hands of capital workers decided that if they were going to improve their plight they had to use political means.
The above film, used in the 2011 campaign, is fascinating. It manages to capture very quickly the important political events in New Zealand’s history and also identify why there is such a great deal of goodwill for the Labour Party. Free healthcare, social security, state housing, one of the smallest gaps between rich and poor on the planet, a commitment to full employment, independent foreign policy and more recently increased awareness of the importance of environmental protection have all signified Labour’s reason for being.
The film canvasses each Labour Government. It rightfully says that the Lange Government’s “free market policies and asset sales didn’t belong to Labour. The party was divided …”.
Giovanni Tiso has noted how a subsequent version of the film had criticism of Douglas and the fourth Labour Government removed. I am pleased to see that the original version complete with criticism is still there for all to see.
The Party is making plans for its 100th year celebration and amongst other things is planning a competition for a new logo. If you are interested you should contact the party direct or your local LEC for details.
And there are important constitutional provisions being considered. When details are made public they will no doubt be discussed here.
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