Following the results of the local elections in England and the devolved parliaments in Scotland and Wales, Keith Bennett has called has called for all working class, popular and democratic forces work to form a united front – “whether in organizational form or de facto, but most likely combining elements of both, including with regard to local circumstances and possibilities.”

Following the drubbing received by both the major parties in British politics in local, Scottish and Welsh elections in Britain on 7 May 2026, this Webinar sought to evaluate the results, what they reveal about the ability of Britain’s ruling classes to retain control over events and their implications for the future of Britain’s political economy.

Moderated by Alan Freeman, the Webinar heard contributions from Andrew Murray, Radhika Desai and Rashida Islam.

In his contribution, Keith Bennett concluded with his assessment of the requirements for addressing the threat posed by the rising strength of Reform:

“The situation therefore demands that all working class, popular and democratic forces work to form a united front – whether in organisational form or de facto, but most likely combining elements of both, including with regard to local circumstances and possibilities.

“This would require a measure of agreement on a limited and realistic number of key issues whilst also allowing for every political party and trend in the working class and progressive movements to put their own perspectives and program before the working class and people. Although time does not allow for elaboration on this, it will also necessitate careful, realistic and perhaps magnanimous consideration of trends in the Labour Party. Starmer’s days in office are clearly numbered. Whether or not his replacement can represent some sort of progress will depend not least on the extent to which left and progressive forces can influence and shift the overall centre of political gravity.

“But one thing is for certain. A government that is complicit in and enables genocide. That appears almost insanely set on a quite possibly nuclear war with Russia. That has attacked some of the poorest and most vulnerable in society with apparently sadistic glee. That foments racism at every opportunity. That is engaged in an onslaught on democratic rights and is embarking on a program of creeping fascism. That seeks to legislate tomorrow what Nigel Farage proposes today. Such a government is part of the problem not part of the solution. If sections of the working class are falling for the odious snake oil of Reform, we can only deal with this by placing the blame where it belongs – squarely at the door of 10 Downing Street.”

 

The full text of Keith Bennett’s talk is available here.