SSP Independence debate; motion 9

Motion 8
In support of an independent Scotland
Pro Independence Platform (temporary)
Given the historic opportunity for an independence
supporting parliament that faces Scotland next year,
the SSP would like to emphasise that it
unreservedly supports an independent Scotland,
regardless of whether the Scottish people choose to
elect a socialist government or not.
The SSP regards the formation of an independent
Scotland as in itself a deepening and strengthening
of democracy and a blow against the British State.
The SSP is looking forward to celebrating Scotland
taking the opportunity for a democratic exit from
the British State.
The 300th anniversary of the act of union next year
provides an ideal opportunity to discuss Scottish
independence in its long-term historical and
political context. The membership would like to
emphasise that independence is a major political
party objective. The SSP and in particular its
elected representatives and office bearers will take
every opportunity to press the independence agenda
in the run up to this 'independence election'.
Signed by: Beverley Smith, Steve Johnston, Jim
Carroll, Colette Mengiles, Eddie Truman, Denise
Morton, Rikki Reid, John Patrick, Matthew Day,
Anja Cradden, Wullie McGartland


Motion 9

British Socialist Party
Cathcart

This conference believes that:

The SSP should be a socialist organisation fighting for the interests of the working class.

The Independence Convention project is a populist and nationalist one seeking to unite the SSP with nationalist parties such as the SNP and appealing to the "Scottish people" rather than the working class.

That the difference between socialists and populists is that socialist fight for the interests of the working class part of the population. Populists may sound radical, but, because they appeal to "the people" as a whole they are incapable of challenging the rule of the capitalist class.

The Independence Convention seeks an independent capitalist Scotland while assuring the capitalists that their rule and their profits are safe. We therefore wish to withdraw any previous comments about the role of the SSP being to convince workers that Independence, even on a capitalist basis would be a gain for workers. We believe that in fact the capitalist class in Britain and internationally is determined not to make concessions to the working class and the working class would gain nothing from Independence. In fact Independence would probably weaken the organisations and fighting ability of the British working class.

Therefore this Conference resolves:

The SSP should withdraw immediately from the Independence Convention and reaffirm that it is socialist party dedicated to overthrowing the rule of the capitalist class.

That the SSP should take a leading role in initiatives to form a British socialist party including calling a conference on the issue together with other groups who have declared themselves in favour of a new party.

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• Independence
• Scottish
• Scotland
• Socialist
• Party
• SSP
• socialism

[cadno1]

Scottish Independence is now majority favoured in Scotland and England according to reccent polls. Scare Tatics from bitter Labour Party members is now driving Scotland towards Independence.

Saor Alba!

[rolandsausage]

The so called 'brit left' are a joke - they support the independence of every nation in the world, all except their own. Pathetic. Britain is a political institution, based on class snobbery, imperialism and division.

No nation is free while it rules another.

Hilarious some of these brits suggesting they've a better chance of a socialist 'country' if we remain ruled from London, considering the south east is a tradition, right wing, tory stronghold.

Nae union!

[JHunter22]

Scotland is a lefty country and because of next year's anniversary the Scot's have something symbolic and meaningful to focus their votes on. I want a free capitalist Scotland, but I'm no Tory. Next year could be the year the tide changes so don't give up on independance yet.

[JHunter22]

A British Socialist Party? Sounds like BS to me. England is historically a right wing capitalist country that has fought against all far left wing governments since they have existed. There's no way that the English will take such a movement seriously. Scotland on the other hand as the underdogs of GB will be much more likely to accept a grand regime change.