Labour high command urges a three-pronged offensive
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.LABOUR MUST go on the offensive and exploit government weaknesses over the economy and the popularity of John Major, the party's high command resolved yesterday.
Shadow Cabinet members agreed that a three-pronged attack should underline that Kenneth Clarke, the Chancellor, shares responsibility for the pounds 50bn public spending deficit; that VAT, mortgage relief and National Insurance changes would cost the typical family pounds 8.50 a week next year and pounds 12.50 the year after; and that the Government could not be trusted to keep its promises.
The apparent switch of tactics came in the first of a new type of ad hoc shadow cabinet meeting, instituted by John Smith, the party leader, to concentrate on political and campaigning issues. The weekly Wednesday meetings had become bogged down with day to day detail.
The new forum, and the evident upbeat content and mood, is a sign that Mr Smith has taken on board accusations that he has relied too heavily on disaffection with Mr Major and Government policies to hand Labour a majority at the next election.
There had also been complaints that the Parliamentary party lacked an effective campaigning organisation.
The party must make moves to occupy the territory of economic opportunity and optimism, members said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments