Campaign news

Momentum Statement December 2015

26th December 2015

Momentum Statement December 2015

While Momentum has successfully achieved its initial short term goal of capturing the energy and enthusiasm of Jeremy’s campaign, there is still work to be
done to ensure that it meets its longer term aim of developing into a democratic, transparent and participatory organisation.

When Momentum was launched, the website stated, “As it grows, Momentum will develop democratic governance structures at every level of the network.” This will be the top priority for early 2016. We will continue to establish regional coordinating networks, made up of two representatives from local groups, at least one of whom must be a woman. In order to move towards a democratic governance structure at a national level, a National Committee will meet in January 2016. Its initial composition is to be decided by the Launch Reference Group (Clive Lewis MP, Rebecca Long-Bailey MP, Richard Burgon MP, Kate Osamor MP, Jon Lansman and Cllr. Sam Tarry), and full details will be published on the website.

In order to reflect the diversity of the movement and its grassroots nature, the National Committee will be made up of two representatives from Scotland, Wales and each of the nine English regions, two from each national trade union and representatives of established Labour left organisations. The committee will be gender balanced and will include BAME and disability representation. Initial representation from regions and nations and equalities groups will be based on consultation as prescribed by the reference group, but will be elected within six months.

The National Committee will perform the following functions:

• Engage with supporters to listen to what groups need to be able to organise effectively at a local level.

• In consultation with local groups and supporters, create a democratic, representative structure which facilitates local, regional and national coordination.
• Ensure that Momentum has the capacity to hold free and fair elections for positions on the National Committee.

• Clarify a membership and affiliation structure, and encourage trade union participation at local and regional as well as national level.
• Secure a viable pathway for Momentum to become a financially sustainable organisation.

• Ensure all the necessary organisational processes and procedures are in place (for instance, verification for local groups and complaints procedures).

Full details of the National Committee will be published on the website. Momentum supporters will receive regular updates on the process, and every effort will be made to engage grassroots supporters in the decision-making processes. We are confident that this process will ensure that Momentum will become a sustainable organisation which will continue to facilitate a grassroots movement for real progressive change in our communities.

As Jeremy outlines in his endorsement of Momentum, 2015 has been a remarkable year. But this is just the beginning. Thank you for your continued support and for being part of Momentum.

Background

By Ian Hodson It’s great news that a mainstream political party has recognised the importance of taking positive action to raise pay. Since 2008, politicians from all parties along with many in the media, have pushed the narrative that society will somehow improve by imposing austerity and blaming minority groups for the state of the country’s finances. Sadly, many have fallen for this deception and the ‘look over there’ politics that has rose to prominence since the Conservatives returned to power in 2010. [continue...]

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