Articles
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
The European Union is imposing swingeing austerity and privatisation on Greece, flouting the democratic wishes of its people and disrespecting its government. Other countries have suffered similar treatment. Despite some differences between Germany and others about the best way to deal with these problems, we can be sure that it will be working people who pay the price.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
The crisis in Ukraine has been created by direct interference by the west in the internal affairs of the country. This has lead to the ousting of the elected President and confrontation with Russia. The extreme right has also been fostered and fascists play a significant role in the new regime. There is civil unrest with strong opposition to the coup and to repression by the pro-western forces in certain quarters. Russia, while acting in its own interests, has effectively held off the threat of encirclement by the west. Western countries, seeking advantage for themselves, are divided about how to act. Popular opposition in Ukraine and abroad combined with Russian power and western division have so-far prevented all out war.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Following Scotland's vote to remain part of the United Kingdom in the independence referendum of 2014, the Smith Commission proposed more powers for the Scottish Parliament. The SNP want to go further arguing for full fiscal autonomy, but their figures do not stack up. Given the state of the Scottish economy, particularly decreasing revenue from oil and the rate of public spending there would be a major hole in the public finances.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
The Saudi war in Yemen is backed by the US and seeks to maintain its control over a strategically and potentially oil-rich part of the region. This is a complex civil war, with the Saudi intervention bringing destruction and suffering to the people of the Yemen.
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
It has been a long stated aim of the SNP to clear the path to independence by destroying Scottish Labour and its tactics in the 2015 general election confirm this.
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Scottish Labour leader, Jim murphy's attempt to win ground from the SNP by asserting the party's "patriotic" credentials are misplaced and counter-productive. Labour needs to be true to its roots and stand up for working class interests.
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
The origins of the Charlie Hebdo attacks lie in the actions of imperialism abroad where it has caused devastation through war and promoting terrorism. At home poverty and discrimination also fuel extremism. Unity is needed to combat reactionary forces and indiscriminate attacks on Islam do not help this cause.
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Toast to the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns given at the Socialist Correspondent Burns Supper 2015. Burns illuminates universal principles by linking them to everyday life, using vivid imagery. His legacy in poetry and song is acknowledged nationally and internationally.