Power and Prosperity

How a radical Labour government can transform Britain 

In a new Fabian Society pamphlet, just published, Patrick Diamond and I set out how we believe Labour can set an agenda for a two term government.

First of all, we argue that Labour needs to explain its purpose and missions from the basis of key values. Labour has departed from the damaging Corbynism but it should base its decisions and actions on the strong ethical socialist tradition. Pre-dating Labour but developed by the leading Christian Socialist and Labour thinker RH Tawney, ethical socialism focuses on the dignity and equal worth of the individual, and their freedoms, while believing that a flourishing life usually takes place in fellowship with others. Ethical socialism avoids the repressive, anti human, ideology of the far Left and also stands against the individualism of the Right. Every government decision should focus on these values; equality and freedom, and fellowship and community.

Second, we outline a radical agenda for a Labour government. Focused on promoting growth through a dynamic market economy, it looks to reform taxation, promote investment, and radically reform the way government works. To prevent more scandals - such as rising NHS waiting lists, poor social care, and, for example, wasteful defence spending - requires focused action with responsibility with a cabinet member given sufficient power.