SERA

In 2011, Progress, the New Labour pressure group which aims to promote a radical and progressive politics for the 21st century, launched their ‘Purple Book’ which lays out what they describe as ‘a progressive future for Labour’.  SERA’s National Secretary Melanie Smallman was invited to speak when the Purple Book Tour visited Bristol.  Here she outlines her argument why missing out a chapter on the environment was significant but perhaps deliberate and right.  

Progress’s Purple Book, subtitled ‘Leaving the State Behind’, looks at some very thorny issues that Labour needs to address if we are to get back into power – from immigration and housing to social mobility and fairness.  But a discussion of the environment – and how we are going to achieve all of these things against the backdrop of climate change – is distinctly missing.  I don’t think it’s an omission however.  I think it’s right that these issues aren’t included.  Because the kind of solutions being put forward in the purple book alone won’t do it for the environment.  Yes, these issues need a modernising and progressive approach and empowering communities and citizens will be key.  But, addressing the issues around energy, the environment and climate change will also need a bigger and stronger role for government.

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