'New Labour' is often accused of being obsessed with style rather than substance, and with image rather ideology. The Struggle for Labour's Soul examines how the party's political thought has developed from 1945 to the present day. It explores the divisions in the Labour Party between the old left, the new left, centrists, the old right and 'New Labour'. These ideological positions are examined in the context of the key political issues of the twenty-first century including constitutional reform, markets, equality, internationalism and globalization. The book concludes with commentaries by renowned experts on the various competing traditions within the party. Featuring contributions by leading academics, journalists and politicians, this is the first major analysis of Labour's political thought for a generation. It will be essential reading for students of British politics and Labour party members, as well as the general reader.
Contributors include: Anthony Arblaster, Matt Beech, Brian Brivati, Tam Dalyell, Joe Haines, Roy (Lord) Hattersley, Kevin Hickson, Dilys Hill, Stuart Holland, Kevin Jefferys, Tony McGrew, Austin Mitchell, Frances Morrell, Raymond (Lord) Plant, Eric Shaw, Noel Thompson, Polly Toynbee, David Walker and Mark Wickham-Jones. Matt Beech, University of Southampton Brian Brivati, Kingston University Tam Dalyell, MP Joe Haines, former Press Secretary to Harold Wilson (1969-1976) Lord