NEC Report

1. NEC Meetings

At the beginning of November we had the NEC Away Day and NEC meeting.

The Away Day concentrated on the challenges facing the party over the coming year – specifically the forthcoming elections, party renewal, and policy making and improving the NEC’s role in running the party.

The main business of the NEC meeting included the guidelines for any future leadership elections, Annual Conference in Manchester which was felt to have been very successful (although we are aware of the major problems of the accreditation process and are addressing these!) and the arrangements for events to replace Spring Conference. It was also reported by the Chief Whip that Clare Short M.P. having resigned the Labour whip had excluded herself from the party.

Copies of a report from my colleague, Ellie Reeves, which you might find useful, together with the NEC response on party funding are available by emailing peter@wheelerswebsite.org.uk

2. Blog

To improve communications I’ve set up a blog. It won’t replace written and e-mail communications but hopefully will complement them. It can access it at www.wheelerswebsite.org.uk

3. Membership 1000 Club

We’ve never needed new members more than we do at the moment and we probably all know people who would join if asked. However, doing so on you own often seems like whistling in the wind.

It occurred to me that a bit of solidarity might help. If 900 of us pledge to get 10 members each that will be an extra 1000, it won’t change the world but will make a real contribution to party membership. More information on my blog but if you’re interested e-mail, writ or ring and we’ll probably have a little prize at the end of next year.

Any members recruited will be able to vote in the leader / deputy elections next year – so get in touch and sign up for the 1000 Club.

4. Warwick

The Party Chair, Hazel Blears has prepared a report on the implementation of our Warwick Manifesto commitments.

The picture seems to be that much progress has been made but we still need urgent action on the outstanding issues – especially delivering on the promised guaranteed bank holidays for all workers. Copies of the report can be received by e-mailing me at this address.

5. Issues

I’ve been pursuing a number of issues on behalf of members including parliamentary selections, trustees for Labour Clubs and ensuring a future for the Local Government Conference. If there are other party related issues you’d like me to take up please let me know.

6. Meetings

If you would like me to attend your GC please contact the above address and I will do my best to get there.

Best wishes for Christmas (and Hanukkah) and the New Year.

Here’s to a good 2007 for the Labour and Trade Union Movement