Scottish Republic

Any gagging order on Tommy is grossly undemocratic

2012-01-28T19:22:00.000Z

Socialist politician Tommy Sheridan is set to leave prison on Monday in which he can return to his family. However any attempt by the authorities to set conditions on his release which include a gagging order should be roundly condemned by all decent democratic folks.

Tommy has made it known he is keen to become involved in the debate concerning the Scottish Independence Referendum. As Tommy is a enthusiastic supporter of Scottish independence once this undemocratic restriction on him (appearing on political platforms or speaking to the press) is lifted we can once again note with interest his contribution to the independence campaign.

His lawyer Aamer Anwar said that a decision has been taken to seek a judicial review of the gagging order, if it appears in the conditions of Sheridan's release on Monday.

He said: "Once we have had a chance to check the papers, he fully intends to challenge it in the courts."

This weblog previously named Red Star Solidarity supported Tommy when he first was arrested, his long wait for a trial and during the trial. Such support had continued when Red Star Solidarity weblog changed to Scottish Republic after I joined the SNP in April 2010. Tommy has indeed many supporters and admirers that reach beyond his Solidarity Scotland party.

Larry

THE SIX NATIONS RUGBY QUIZ BOOK

2012-01-26T19:48:00.000Z

START THE COUNT DOWN ’TILL KICK-OFF WITH THE SIX NATIONS RUGBY QUIZ BOOK

The highly anticipated Six Nations is just around the corner: the coaches have named their training squads, fans are busy filling buses and ferries are being booked for a journey to the Emerald Isle to drink plenty of the black stuff.

In the count down to kick-off, what better way for rugby fans to prepare themselves for this year’s tournament than recalling some of those games gone by, and taking the opportunity to try and remember who kicked that penalty, and who scored that try?

Well, this new quizbook does just that - containing 50 rounds of 10 questions, reflecting on some fantastic and more unusual moments over the past tournaments, it’s enough to test and tease even the most dedicated rugby buff! Here’s the perfect gift or impulse buy for anyone counting down the days ’till kick-off.

Each round in The Six Nations Rugby Quiz Book can be considered as an individual quiz, with the questions tending to get harder as you go from number one to ten – and thankfully, there’s an answers section in the back of the book!

It is safe to say that the author Matthew Jones, a chemist from Cardiff, is a sports anorak. He spends his weekends travelling the length and breadth of the country visiting sporting events, and he has already published two other quiz books sport – including So You think You Know Welsh Rugby?, which has sold thousands of copies. It is due to the success and enthusiastic feedback to these books that Y Lolfa decided to commission the new book.

So, why not start with some easy ones? Here goes:

Stadio Flaminio is located in which city?

a) Bari b) Genoa c) Rome

Shane Williams scored his 41st try on his 56th Welsh appearance making him his country’s most successful finisher. Whose record did he break?

a) Ieuan Evans b) Gareth Thomas c) Gerald Davies

Who scored a try on his Irish Test debut against Scotland in 2000?

a) Shane Horgan b) Peter Stringer c) John Hayes

Who in 2007 set an 83-cap Scotland record?

a) Dan Parks b) Jason White c) Scott Murray

If Richard Hill was the first, and Phillip de Glanville the second, who in 2008 became the third Bath player to captain England?

a) Lee Mears b) David Flatman c) Steve Borthwick

Former international flanker and coach Jean-Claude, is the father of which fly-half?

a) David Skrela b) Lionel Beauxis c)JulienPeyrelongue
For a review copy and more information (or the answers for the above!), please e-mail me at branwen@ylolfa.com.

Title: Six Nations Rugby Quiz Book
Author: Matthew Jones
Category: Sport
Binding: softback
Pages: 128
Price: £3.95
ISBN: 978-1-84771-421-3
Publishers: Y Lolfa
TitleThe Six Nations Rugby Quiz Book
Publication Date30th of January 2012
Price & ISBN£3.95
AuthorMatthew JonesPhone, e-mailmatthewjonesontour@hotmail.com

News and events on Robert Burns Day

2012-01-25T15:12:00.000Z

Happy Burns Day from Scottish Republic. This is the 250th Anniversary of our National Poet Robert Burns and I have got my haggis, neeps and tatties in stock for tonight.
Firstly some news and events taking place in Scotland to celebrate our National Bard.
In Celtic Connections website of Radio Scotland you can download a Podcast In celebration of the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns - over 300 poems have been recorded by actors from all generations.http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00c13jm
And by Kevin Williamson

For anyone planning on being in the Edinburgh or Dumfries area this weekend, here’s a heads-up on a couple of events I’m involved with that might be worth checking out.

The monthly Neu! Reekie! culture club returns on Fri 27th with the usual eclectic mix of film, spoken word and music. This Friday we’ll be celebrating the birthdays of two very different Scottish poets.
Or check out the activities in Dumfries where I Larry was born and raised and where we have a special affection for Burns.http://www.bigburnssupper.com
If you are in the Glasgow area check out the SRSM Burns Night Friday evening.
Burns NiteFriday 27th January 7pmUpstairs lounge 'Elephant & Bugle', Maryhill Road, Glasgow.Just past the Wyndford flats, (known locally as the "Barracks" across from Maryhill Police Station). Wee row of shops and the pub is first, next corner after the barracks, on the same side,
Group: White RosePiper: Andrew TennentSpeaker: Patrick Scott Hogg: Burns the Republican.Immortal Memory: White Rose.
£10 admission. Children free.
Vegan Vegetarian SoupHaggisChampit totties and neepsPudding: Gateaux, etc.vegetarians please notify us first for a vegetarian haggis.
All Welcome.
And check out the Official Robert Burns website @ http://www.robertburns.org
Slainte
Larry

Something for the weekend: Big Burns Supper & Neu! Reekie!

2012-01-23T22:07:00.000Z

by Kevin Williamson
For anyone planning on being in the Edinburgh or Dumfries area this weekend, here’s a heads-up on a couple of events I’m involved with that might be worth checking out.
The monthly Neu! Reekie! culture club returns on Fri 27th with the usual eclectic mix of film, spoken word and music. This Friday we’ll be celebrating the birthdays of two very different Scottish poets.
Today would have been Paul Reekie‘s 50th birthday and we’ll be showing some rare footage of Paul as well as toasting his life and work. And of course this Wed would have been Robert Burns’ 253rd birthday when most sensible folk Scotland will be celebrating in the time honoured way with haggis, neeps, whisky, poetry and song.
At Neu! Reekie! accompanied by the gorgeous films by Alastair Cook – which tell the story of Burns’ life and times – I’ll be performing a selection of the radical Burns verse from the Festival show “Robert Burns: Not In My Name”. There’ll also be live music from three quality acts: Emelle, Robert King (formerly of Scars), and Tango Rhums.
BIG BURNS SUPPER
If you wanna see the whole unabridged ‘Robert Burns: Not In My Name’ show there will be a special one-off performance on Saturday, 3pm, at the Robert Burns Centre Film Theatre in Dumfries. This is part of the inaugural Big Burns Supper festival which has some wonderful events in and around Dumfries this week. Tickets can be got here. Full details can be found here at the Big Burns Supper website.
http://www.bigburnssupper.com

Independence For Scotland March & Rally Sat 22nd Sept 2012

2012-01-16T20:11:00.001Z

There is a change of date to Saturday 22nd September Assemble Calton Hill 11am is now the correct details for the event.If you remember growing up with your national identity being suppressed, if you want something better for your children, your country, your family, for yourself - then it is up to YOU to help make the change.
Help Scotland become a nation once again. Taking it’s proper place in the world. A country to be proud of.
Do not let those who say Scotland cannot stand on it’s own two feet deter you from striving to help make our country INDEPENDENT.
Let us organise, Rally and March in 2012 - show the world that we are ready to make our great country a nation once more.
http://www.independenceforscotland.com

New look to updated SRSM website

2012-01-16T18:15:00.000Z

Received notification from SRSM that they have updated their website with some new features or articles. You can view the new look website by clicking here
See Below
Hi All,

Just a wee update too say that the SRSM has had a little makeover, if you haven't visited recently then why not check it out.
There is still some of the old site still to be moved over.
I would also like too say that we had it confirmed today that one of our former colleagues passed away this week. Matt Lygate was a political prisoner who was sentanced to 25 years imprisonment in 1972, a press report just prior to his release from 1983 can be read at the link below.
http://www.scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org/Pages/SRSMArticlesTheCrimeandPunishmentofMattLygate.aspx
Regards

Jim

Scottish Government to begin consultation for 2014 Referendum

2012-01-11T10:02:00.000Z

First Minister Alex Salmond met his ministers to discuss plans for a referendum consultation
An approximate time for the Scottish Independence Referendum to take place has been set by the Scottish Government for Autumn 2014.
Yesterday saw a debate in Westminster House Of Commons on whether the Scottish Government had the legal authority to stage the referendum without London approval. However the Scottish Government has it's own legal opinion on Holyrood staging the referendum so Scottish Secretary Michael Moore is misinforming the Scottish people on the authority of the Scottish Government and this has led to a wise rebuke from First Minister Alex Salmond.
The fact that London insists in attempting to hijack the referendum with strings attached is contemptuous of not only the Scottish Government but the Scottish people who handed a mandate to the SNP to build and vote for a referendum in Scotland.
The conditions attached to the powers London is offering Holyrood is unacceptable. Correct that the Scottish Government will go ahead with the consultation process by the end of this month and make decisions entirely on consulting the Scottish people.
The London government want a referendum in the shortest possible time however this is not entirely fair or realistic. The referendum takes time to organise, firstly there is the consultation process then once opinions considered time is required to legislate within a year. And other Scottish elections have to be considered that require no clash with the Independence Referendum. Campaigning for or against the union will take time and allow the Scottish people to think carefully about the most important historic decision in 300 years of history.
At least the SNP Government is remaining open minded about having a Devo Max option on the ballot paper. Despite the preferred option of a straight Yes/No question only on the ballot paper the Scottish Government is at least willing to consider another substantial body of opinion in Scotland. Some Scots would opt for financial independence but not political independence. These opinions need to be considered despite my and our determination to campaign for full independence.
Another condition of London is to deny 16 and 17-year-olds the vote. Under 18s can marry at 16, work and pay taxes and join the armed forces. The young people in this age category should not be denied a vote in the historic decision whether to keep or ditch the union.
A special or Scottish Commission could be considered to oversee the organisation, fairness of the voting process. London wants the Electoral Commission to oversee the vote.
So there we have it well done to Alex Salmond for announcing the time of the 2014 Referendum during the House Of Commons debate and standing firmly in support of the authority of the Scottish Government to build, stage and run this referendum entirely in Scotland for the Scottish electoral residents.
Larry

SRSM Northern England Branch AGM

2012-01-09T18:24:00.000Z

Announcement just to let you know that the Scottish Republican Socialist Movement (Northern England Branch) are having an AGM in Stalybridge (nr Manchester) on Saturday 25 February at 12 noon (in Society Rooms pub). They will be reviewing their activities, making future plans, discussing branch literature, electing and re-electing officers and also making a toast to burns...food, real ale available.SlainteLarry

Hands Off Our Independence Referendum!

2012-01-09T12:13:00.001Z

Alex Salmond sets out his clear vision for Scotland
The timetable for the Scottish Independence Referendum to be held sometime around 2014 or 2015 is likely to be adhered to by the SNP lead Scottish Government. This is despite unwanted political interference by British supremo PM David Cameron. The Scottish Government was elected with an SNP majority in May and the mandate from the Scottish people has been secured. For Alex Salmond clearly pointed out the timing of the Referendum to be held sometime in the second term of the Parliament.
The reality is Westminster interference will be rejected by the SNP (and most ordinary Scots) from a Tory lead government that have only one MP in Scotland.
Another suggestion from London is that the Referendum have only one Yes/No question on independence. This is a nonsense the mandate handed to the SNP was for an Independence Referendum that would include the question and option of more powers for the Scottish Parliament. This is only fair and what the Scottish people voted for in other words was a change from the status quo and limited powers that Holyrood presently has.
What Cameron is seeking to do is to disturb the mandate given by the Scottish people to the SNP lead Government and consequently undermine Scottish Democracy.
One advantage of a 2014/15 Referendum timetable is that the questions on the ballot paper can be carefully considered, time to prepare and organise the ballot and time for the Scottish Government to make the case clearly for independence.
Everyone on the Scottish register of electors will have a vote and this is only fair. This is despite wishful thinking by some in the House of Lords that Scots ex-pats be given the vote. Where would you stop? If someone who is deemed Scottish can vote in England then why not ex-pat Scots in Canada, Australia, USA or anywhere in the world? Besides those who live in Scotland contribute mostly to the economy of our Scottish nation.
Cameron can take a hike! We will not stand for being dictated too by London or our Independence Referendum hijacked by Unionists unelected by the Scottish people.
Instead Alex Salmond should be left alone by Cameron or from Westminster interference to attend to the important Scottish business of Government and continued improving of the Scottish economy.
Larry

SRSM Burns Night and events still pending

2012-01-08T07:09:00.000Z

Received the following details below from Donald Anderson Scottish Republican Socialist Movement (SRSM) about some recent events pending: SRSM Burns Night
Tickets £10 to book contact SRSM
Finally got a venue for the Burns Nicht. There were problems with several in town, etc. The best deal I could get was a free function upstairs in the 'Elephant and Bugle', Glasgow, next to Wyndford Flats (the Barracks} and Maryhill Police Station. We have a lounge to ourselves, kitchen and bar. I can do the supper again. Cockaleeckie Soup, Haggis, Champit Totties and Neeps and some kind of pudding. Piper and White Rose. White Rose will also do the Immortal Memory. Andrew Tennent (Helen's boay) will pipe the haggis. Friday 7 pm, January 27.
White Rose is also playing Glencoe, Sunday February 12. I will drive out to the Lomond Park Hotel, Balloch, through the week to make sure we still welcome.
Scotland Alert meeting today , Jan 8 Sunday 1 pm. Premier Inn Argyle St, Glasgow.
Next SRSM Meeting Sunday 22 January downstairs, Denholms Hope St, Glasgow
Please note for updates on events for SRSM check out Scottish Republican Socialist News http://www.scottish-republican-socialist-news.com or the SRSM website http://scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org

Leanne's campaign for Plaid leadership gets off to a good start

2012-01-07T22:27:00.002Z

Leanne Wood's campaign for Plaid leadership has got off to a good start when she outlined her vision for an independent Wales she wants to lead the party in winning new ground and building the case for “real independence.”
Socialist Leanne is supported by this weblog to take the campaign for a new Wales into the leadership of Plaid Cymru. A conviction politician Leanne has the right credentials to put Plaid several steps ahead of the unionist parties and lead the fight against the neo-liberal agenda of the British parties.
Scottish Republic weblog will follow her campaign with interest and support from here in Scotland for a leader of Plaid who can not just transform the party but transform Wales from destroyed communities to a nation proudly rebuilding itself on the world stage.
Larry
See below on Leannes Official Campaign Launch:
Leanne Outlines Her Vision for Wales at her Official Campaign Launch
Plaid Cymru leadership candidate Leanne Wood AM told supporters at her campaign launch that she wants to lead the party in winning new ground and building the case for “real independence.”
The AM said it is time for the people of Wales to take the future of the country into their own hands and only Plaid Cymru can drive this transformation.
At a launch event at the Ammanford Social Club (aka The Pick and Shovel) last night, Ms Wood said “Welsh people can no longer wait for the British parties to catch up.
“We’ve achieved a lot, but we all know that we have so much more to do.
“The Assembly that we have does not have the tools to deal with our disadvantaged position which means worse effects on Welsh people from the economic crisis.
“Only Plaid Cymru has the political analysis that is needed to lift Wales out of perennial disadvantage and poverty.
“We are the only party that has this ambition for Wales. There is a powerful economic argument for independence.”
Miss Wood also said:
“Winning independence is not enough. We want independence plus. My vision for Wales is for real independence.
“Monmouthshire’s Raymond Williams may not be a name on the lips of many people in Wales, despite the fact that in his particular field of academia, he was considered one of the greatest in the world has known. He was a clever man who had a lot to say about politics in his home land, and so much of what he wrote is relevant to us today. On independence, Raymond Williams said this:‘Real independence is a time of new and active creation: people sure enough of themselves to discard their baggage; knowing the past is past, as shaping history, but with a new confident sense of the present and the future, where the decisive meanings and values will be made.’
“That’s our challenge: building and selling the case for independence plus, real independence.
“I want independence so we can protect and build on those things that are valuable to us all. “Real independence”– independence of thought, as well as constitutional freedom: independence to enable us to develop economic equality; to free us to argue for peace in the world instead of war; to allow us to build on our internationalist traditions by contributing to world affairs while at the same time ensuring a vibrant future for our own unique language and cultures.”
She added: “The difference between Plaid Cymru and the British parties is that they seek to ‘manage’ Wales. We want to transform Wales. Plaid Cymru is the only party that will work to ensure Wales breaks out of its poverty by enabling the development of the inherent skills of our people so that we can thrive and achieve our true potential.
“That ambition for Wales sets us distinctly apart from the British parties. I believe wholeheartedly in the ability of our people, and I will offer the leadership that can grow a sense of national confidence and ambition that is a precursor to renewed prosperity.
“A new era has come for Plaid. An exciting one. This is the time for us to be developing our case, discussing ideas, looking for Welsh solutions to Welsh problems, as well as reaching out to the world.
“We have long established the case for independence, for me that is a given. The job in hand now is to explain what an independent Wales would look like, what it would mean to the people of Wales, how it would shape and improve our lives and how we can all travel on a journey together that will take us there.”
Carmarthenshire MP Jonathan Edwards also addressed party members in support of Miss Wood’s campaign. He added:
“This is a hugely important election – not just for Plaid Cymru but for Wales as a whole.
“Plaid Cymru is the totem pole of Welsh politics – we are the party that sets the agenda.
“Our membership has a very important choice to make – they’re not just electing a leader of an Assembly group like the other parties in Wales, but electing a genuine national political leader.
“Also unlike the other parties, in our election it is one member one vote. Every grass roots member has the same influence on the ballot as an elected member.
“I’m supporting Leanne as she’s a conviction politician. In these turbulent times people expect their politicians to offer a clear vision. Leanne has consistently been someone who has been who criticised the excesses of the failed neo-liberal economic ideology pursued by the three unionist parties which has created so much damage to our communities in Wales.”
http://en.leannewood.com/?p=286

New gmail address for this weblog

2012-01-07T13:16:00.000Z
Just an announcement I have switched my googlemail account to gmail and can be contacted at redlarry1962@gmail.com however mail sent to my old email address will be forwarded to my new gmail account.
You are welcome to contact me if you have any questions about this weblog or wish to provide a guest post for Scottish Republic.
The new email address is displayed up at the header title for the weblog.
Regards
Larry

Irish communities supporting Scottish independence

2012-01-02T13:18:00.000Z

James Connolly Society on Scottish independence march in Edinburgh
The article below is interesting and supportive of Scottish Independence from this section of the Irish Republican community in Scotland.
The words from Jim Slaven and the James Connolly Society should be welcomed. For the break up of the British state would be welcome by nationalists in the Six Counties of Ulster in Ireland.
It would also force the Unionists in the North to look again at their relationship with Britain.
A more democratic independent Scotland would be good for the Irish Diaspora and community in Scotland. And one important factor in an independent Scotland is the ability to allow freedom of speech and assembly on differing religious and International and political beliefs. While not giving way to open racial hatred and sectarianism.
Scottish Republic weblog shares the concerns of the James Connolly Society about the Offences Behaviour Bill debate. A republican socialist weblog such as this is obviously going to be suspicious of increased police powers and a limit on the freedom of speech.
And it is true to say that Scottish Republic weblog is a step forward from independence in what I would support as the next stage and political transformation in a newly independent Scotland.
Certainly at this stage while trapped in the union of 1707 the weblog supports the continued governance and fresh challenges put forward by the SNP.
Not every policy put forward by the SNP is supported by Scottish Republic however silence or discretion is the better option when unity of nationalists is to be considered and thus avoid being a staunch critic of SNP policies which would play into the hands of the unionist enemy.
It is true to say that this weblog supports the overwhelming policies and legislation being forwarded for debate by the SNP lead Scottish Government.
And so Irish Republicans in Scotland actively discussing the type of society they want in Scotland is to be welcomed. Also it would be a positive development to have Irish community activists campaigning for a Yes vote in the Independence Referendum.
May the days be over when some in the Irish Diaspora thought that voting Labour was their duty for the working man and woman and poor. This is not the case for the London controlled Labour Party in Scotland to win over the Irish into thinking by keeping Scotland in the union is acceptable while supporting Irish Freedom. The British state needs to be broken up and not it's interests upheld in the 21st Century. Then we can serve all communities in an independent multi-cultural Scotland including the desires and aspirations of the Irish.
Larry
See below Jim Slaven article.
Referendum Yes Vote Is Priority For Republicans
By Jim Slaven
With Christmas out of the way thoughts turn to New Year resolutions. Politically this is more likely to entail agreement on a calendar of events, programme of work etc. However for any of that to make any sense these lists must be embedded in strategy aimed at advancement to realistic goals and objectives. A key part of this process is setting priorities for the coming year. Given everything that has happened over the last few months this might not be the best time to point this out but for Irish republicans in Scotland the priority must be building support for a Yes vote in the forthcoming independence referendum.
One of the most disappointing aspects of the Offensive Behaviour Bill debate was the glaring lack of understanding and at times outright hostility it has created (or perhaps more accurately uncovered) between nationalists and republicans. It does not say much about the level of public discourse in this country that an honest discussion about a major piece of legislation which increases police powers and limits free speech descends very quickly into name calling and abuse. The notion that any criticism of the SNP is anti-Scottish or a unionist plot organised by the Labour party is clearly laughable. I mean if Labour could organise a conspiracy like that they would not be in their present shambolic decline. It also does nothing to raise the level of debate to label the SNP anti Catholic or anti Irish, neither of which they are in my view.
A more politically prosaic explanation for recent difficulties is that the SNP made an error when they first got into office of downplaying the ethno-religious problem that Scotland faced. To mention it was ‘talking Scotland down’ and the problem was deemed ‘not a priority’. As predicted at the time this situation could not hold and when faced with some high profile incidents the SNP were left vulnerable to the accusation that they had took their eye of the ball and oversaw deterioration in the situation. Rather than pause at this point they made another mistake of accepting a wish list from the police and prosecutors which quickly became the Offensive Behaviour Bill. Hence they compounded an error with another error. And now we are where we are.
While the passing of this Bill has been bruising for all concerned republicans must remain focused when considering our political priorities for the time ahead. Clearly we do not agree with the SNP government on many things but we do agree that the British state should be broken up. The referendum on independence is a once in a generation, historic opportunity and we should do everything in our power to achieve a Yes vote. Republicans in Scotland must be clear headed and strategic in our approach and this must include building alliances with other progressives around a campaign for independence.
The referendum will dominate politics in Scotland and Irish republicans will not be able to stand by and focus on events elsewhere. Historical data seems to suggest many in the Irish community will vote against independence. Many will do so at the behest of the Labour party. Such debate and division within the community is all the more reason for republicans to show leadership on the issue. A Yes vote is in the interest of Irish reunification (and in the interest of the Irish community in Scotland) and our actions must reflect this. The break up of Britain and the establishment of an independent Scotland is a strategic objective. It will not deliver the Scottish republic we seek; it is however a necessary, if not sufficient, signpost on the road to the republic.
We should be clear and unequivocal in our support for national self determination. We should also be just as strident in pointing out the utter futility (not to mention contradictions) of voting unionist. When the Labour party ran Scotland like one party state they did so in the interests of capital not of the working class. During that period their elected representatives did zero to advance the interests of the Irish community while they sought to advance themselves. As I argued at the time their opposition to the Offensive Behaviour Bill was tactical and opportunistic. Now they are in opposition (everywhere) we should take their offers of support and soothing words with a heavy dose of salt.
Since its formation the James Connolly Society has argued for a Scottish Republic. Seen here participating in an Independence rally in Edinburgh.
Presently the level of pre referendum debate is shallow and unimaginative. With many politicians appearing happier reworking old arguments from 1999 (or even 1979) rather than engaging with Scotland as it is in 2012. For Unionists this means returning to the scare tactics which have failed before and will fail again. For the SNP this means adopting a conservative approach talking down (ironically) the potential for change, constantly attempting to ease unionist fears over the monarchy, military or even Britishness. I’m reliably informed the SNP leadership views this ‘triangulation’ as clever. It might be but such tactical manoeuvring will only get you so far. Within this debate about the nation’s future there must also be space for more radical voices.
New Labour’s ‘Devolution all round’ strategy was intended to consolidate the British state. As we predicted at the time they were never going to be able to control the political dynamic in the way they envisaged. Scotland has undergone a shift in consciousness and with that the desire for change has grown. Very few Scots now view themselves or the world through the prism of Britishness. Similarly very few now believe the solutions to Scotland’s problems can be found in the present constitutional arrangements. The centre of political gravity has shifted and power will continue to shift from London to Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast.
The question is what we want to do with that power. We must begin discussing what type of society it is we are seeking to build in Scotland. For republicans it must be about Scotland being independent so we can do things differently. It must be about building alliances to challenge and resist right-wing hegemony. It must be about engaging the silent majority, the marginalised and silenced with our vision of a society based on rights and equality. It should be about putting the wit and wisdom of the nation (not to mention its other resources) to use for the benefit of all. A first step must be creating space where pro independence forces can debate and discuss such ideas in the spirit of solidarity and comradeship. Republicans must play our part in creating the conditions for such an initiative.
A tactical alliance with nationalists in advance of the independence referendum does not mean signing up to every dot and coma of their programme. While we have very different visions for the future of Scotland we should not allow these legitimate political differences to cloud our judgement when it comes to building common cause to achieve shared objectives. Independence is a huge political prize and we should keep our eyes fixed firmly on that prize. A No vote in the referendum will be a disaster for Scotland. It will be a disaster for working class communities across the country. It will also be a disaster for all of us who strive for the maximum change in society. If we let this opportunity pass us by we will regret it for a very long time.
http://107cowgate.com/2012/01/01/referendum-yes-vote-is-priority-for-republicans/

Happy New Year for 2012

2012-01-01T00:18:00.001Z

Happy New Year from Kirkcaldy in Scotland. I hope the days and nights are kind to you and peaceful in 2012.SlainteLarry

New Year Resolution join the SPSC

2011-12-31T18:08:00.001Z

Decided in the new year to join the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign. I will fill out the Standing Order form in the next few days. I don't know how active the SPSC are in Fife? However I will also cover Dundee in the new year to help out with campaigning work there.
The Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign can be found @ http://www.scottishpsc.org.uk
Larry

My weblog list disappeared

2011-12-30T16:17:00.002Z
The list of weblogs for progressive reading has disappeared from this weblog. It is frustrating because I spent months and a few years compiling the list.
I will just have to start from scratch again and already I am posting a few. Right enough when I went into the edit feature my list was empty of blogs. It is impossible to remember each and every one I had posted but have a fair idea.
Anyway I have moved "progressive weblogs to read" well up the page as I think it is an important feature.
The new list of weblogs has however been an improvement to include some new ones and of course blogs on Palestine.
What a start for the new year?
Larry

Supporting the Palestinian People

2011-12-28T19:19:00.001Z

Scottish Republic weblog supports the Palestinian people for a homeland free from Israeli aggression and an end to Israeli airstrikes on the people of Gaza.
I have recently updated my links to Scottish Republic and have included the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Also Intifada Voice of Palestine @ http://www.intifada-palestine.com
Also under International Socialist links is the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign @ http://www.scottishpsc.org.uk
Those of us on the Left understand it is natural to support peace, justice, human rights and socialism. A homeland for a patriotic people is no different.
Scottish Republic will continue to put independence for stateless nations at the top of the political agenda. Unlike the Brit Left we put independence for Scotland as top priority and then we feel comfortable with our Internationalist beliefs. For how can you argue for national liberation for another country without first releasing your own from the chains of slavery?
Larry

New domain name for Scottish Republic

2011-12-26T23:50:00.000Z
As we enter a new year next week then why not a fresh start. So I have invested in a new domain name for the site @ http://www.scotsrepublic.comHowever if you click on the old link you will be redirected to the new site address.The fact that I have purchased a new domain for the site is evidence that Scottish Republic weblog is a success and well visited site.Scottish Republic is my own creation nothing special but is an honest down to earth no nonsense Scottish Republican Socialist weblog.Long may we continue into the new year!Larry

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! / Nollaig chridheil agus Bliadhna mhath ur!

2011-12-25T08:17:00.000Z

Scots Gaelic - Nollaig chridheil agus Bliadhna mhath ur!
Irish - Nollaig Shona Dhuit
Welsh - Nadolig LLawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda
Good Morning this Christmas from Kirkcaldy, Fife Scotland. I hope you are all well this special day and have families to share the festive spirit.
At this time of year it is a time for reflection and desire in the coming year that we will see more compassion in the world. Peace and human rights particularly for political prisoners and for those of us struggling for basic democratic values.
And for nations struggling for independence.
Anyway have a brilliant day and here's to you and yours
Larry

International Radio links updated on Scottish Republic

2011-12-24T13:52:00.000Z

The International Radio links have been sorted and broken links repaired with new links updated to avoid the frustration of a blank page.
I have also moved International Radio links far up the page to promote this item of interest.
Good reading and listening and have a Merry Christmas!
Larry
Note: Scottish, Irish and Celtic radio links can be found further down the page under The Celtic Nations (language, culture and self-determination.)

Scottish Republic backing Leanne for Plaid leadership

2011-12-19T08:14:00.001Z

Scottish Republic weblog is backing Leanne Wood in her bid for the Plaid Cymru leadership.Leanne Wood describes herself as socialist, republican, environmentalist, anti-racist and feminist. She has announced that she is contesting Plaid Cymru’s leadership election. The party currently has three MPs in the Westminster Parliament and eleven members in the Welsh Assembly.Source: Socialist ResistanceA colourful figure Leanne is honest, clever, sincere and committed to the campaign for a better independent Wales.I am proud to announce Scottish Republic support for her campaign in the new year to lead Plaid the party of Wales to greater heights.
On her blog she recently announced the following:
I have decided to put my name forward for the leadership of Plaid Cymru. The next few years will present a great opportunity for Plaid to fulfil our long term ambitions and I would like to be at the helm as we enter a new chapter in our history.Now, more than ever, a strong Plaid Cymru is needed to put the transformation of our economy at the fore of the political agenda. I have the vision, ambition and determination to do that.More information about my campaign and platform can be found on my campaign website http://leannewood2012.com or by following me on Twitter and Facebook.http://leannewoodamac.blogspot.com/2011/12/standing-for-plaid-leadership.html
And in her campaign she has this to announce:
For too long, Plaid Cymru has been apologetic and evasive on the question of Welsh independence. Our credibility has, in my view, suffered as a result. If the electorate understand anything about what we stand for, most people ‘get’ that we are for Welsh independence. Yet they are unclear as to what we mean by that. We must therefore develop a clear vision of an independent Wales and a plan for getting there.
We can learn a lot from the SNP’s success, but we are not in the same place as they are, politically or electorally. The ground must be prepared to push independence. We must develop the economic case for Wales becoming an independent state.
We must also recognise that our party was founded with a wider vision than constitutional independence alone. Of course, we seek constitutional independence for our nation, but we seek more than that; what Raymond Williams called “real independence” – genuinely working to end war, inequality and discrimination.
I would recommend both a short and longer term approach to our aims. Agreement and clarity on our long-term vision should ensure that short-term, day-to-day actions and election campaigning must contribute to, rather than undermine, our longer-term vision. Short-term campaigns should always contribute to greater legislative and fiscal devolution. Everything we do in the short term should contribute towards the case for real independence.
Our long-term vision must be framed in the context of the international economic crisis. We must respond to people’s economic concerns today as well as developing a long term economic strategy for Wales which aims to equalise Wales’s position with similar sized European nations and regions. Our vision must be one which leaves no-one behind and strives for economic equality within the country. It should also build resilience or counter the long-term threats facing Wales – long-term unemployment and the associated social problems, reduced welfare, lack of security, rising food and energy bills (peak oil), community break-down and climate change.
The choice between a progressive, equal future on the one hand and one where wealth and power is concentrated in the hands of the few on the other has never been starker.
We should also not be apologetic about our progressive policies and values, policies that members consistently support at annual conference. As the crisis deepens, our values supporting sustainability, economic responsibility, a role for the state in the economy, and indigenous rights (versus globalisation) are becoming more mainstream.
Food and fuel “sovereignty” to aim for a healthier population and to build resilience against climate change and peak oil is a green and progressive agenda aimed at reducing dependence by building self-reliance and is one Plaid Cymru should follow.
Our support for the European Union is far too unconditional: we must develop a clear line about the kind of Europe we want to build in the current crisis. We should continue to explicitly state that we are Europeans but that “European regionalism” is wedded to neoliberal economics and imposing uniform rates of fiscal policy across the Union- precisely what we’re arguing against in the UK. We should portray ourselves as the most pro-European party but for a Europe of the peoples, not a Europe of the bosses/markets.
Plaid Cymru has the policy framework and record to position itself firmly in the alternative camp, but to do this, inconsistencies need to be addressed: trust and honesty are essential if we are to persuade people to trust us with our economic/independence vision.
A clear and consistent sustainability/renewable energy policy and the sticking to our policy for a nuclear-free Wales means we should not welcome all jobs, no matter the long term cost. Short-term individual constituency issues should not be allowed to take precedence over the national interest. But we must recognise that we have a wider responsibility than merely to oppose UK Government plans for our energy, we need to push for an alternative to the technologies of the past, and look to a future which protects the environmental as well as economic futures of our children.
We should rule out a coalition with the Tories, whose leader in Wales opposes stronger devolution, and also recognise that we must isolate those in Labour who stand in the way of further devolution. Apart from the obvious point that we cannot work with people who put so much effort into obstructing our path to independence, such a stance would make the Tories unelectable and irrelevant in Wales, and show how in practical terms our vision will take us on a progressive path, rather than a neo-liberal one. This would help us to convince those people who are currently Labour voters that we are serious about their concerns. Unless we break new ground in the highly populated areas where Labour picks up their seats, we will never become Wales’s largest party.
We must work to shake off the perception that Plaid Cymru is only concerned with the interests of those who speak Welsh, but this must be done in a way that is unapologetic in our support for the Welsh language. We should work to establish the right to speak Welsh as an equalities issue, with protection against discrimination on the grounds of language use. A combination of legislation and public education has changed acceptable public attitudes towards racism, sexism, homophobia, disability. It remains socially acceptable to ridicule and discriminate against people who speak Welsh. Our vision is of an inclusive Wales, where all of us who live here have the right to live in a society which is as equal as we can make it. We must seek to support the necessary and challenging economic, legislative and policy changes to secure the future of the language as a thriving language at a community level.
Internal Structures
Plaid Cymru local meetings can be improved, as can our engagement with the membership. Discussion meetings, where someone with expertise on an issue gave a short presentation before an open Q&A, would make branch or constituency meetings far more interesting and would ensure that Plaid Cymru members were fully equipped with the arguments for canvassing. Elected members should make themselves available to attend such meetings.
Our internal structures should enable members to contribute to the building of the economic case for independence and for disseminating the information for the building of that case to our network of activists.
Consideration should be given to developing mechanisms for grassroots discussions to feed into the leadership groups within the party. Strengthening the communication between the leadership at the different levels of government and the grassroots is essential if the leadership is to stay in touch with the membership.
Communication
Plaid Cymru leaflets need to focus on the party’s wider vision. The central communications unit should prepare a weekly digest of political leaflet ‘tit-bits’ to be e-mailed out to local members/candidates/councillors. These messages/tit-bits should always push the national vision. Leaflets should also include information about community projects and details telling people how they can get involved.
There should be regular communication with our members and network of community activists – new media can be used for this.
I would also support turning Welsh Nation/Y Ddraig Goch into a for-sale publication, marketed at potential supporters as well as on a standing order based subscription for members. It should include political analysis as well as news. The SNP’s ‘Independence’ magazine could be used as a model, but careful consideration would need to be given to making it financially viable and sustainable, including initially publishing it online.
Membership
Members should be clear what role they can play to further the aims of our independence project. They should be provided with options of things they can do ‘to help build Wales’. These options can range from drafting leaflets, writing letters to the press, social media activity, trade union work, getting involved in a collective community project, canvassing, organising coffee mornings or social events etc. A tier of ‘active members’ willing to do this work, connected to each other online should be encouraged to contribute to policy development and decision making.
Our members should be supported in their work as community activists. Our members should live the party’s narrative. Plaid Cymru at grassroots/community level should be about people helping to build their community, inspiring others to get involved – we should literally be building the Wales we want to become. Our structures and communication should facilitate community action and inter-connectivity between members/community activists, so good practice can be shared.
Greater efforts should be made to recruit from within the trades union movement and youth through active university branches. Consideration should be given to the creation of a TU/youth organiser position so that a targeted recruitment campaign can be implemented.

Scottish Independence - by FM Alex Salmond

2011-12-18T18:57:00.000Z

Supporting the Cuban Revolution over the years.

2011-12-18T18:36:00.000Z

I have added the Cuba Solidarity Campaign weblog to my list of recommended reading. Also featured in the International Socialist links section is the official Cuba Solidarity Campaign website http://www.cuba-solidarity.orgIn the International Radio links section you can find links for Cuban Radio reports or Radio Havana.And of course under Political Prisoners / Campaigns you can find the website link for National Committee to Free the Cuban Five. As a Republican Socialist weblog Scottish Republic stands fully and proudly behind the Cuban People and their Revolution.Enjoy checking the latest on Cuba here at this socialist weblog.Larry

A Christmas message from Scottish Republic

2011-12-17T20:22:00.001Z

The image of the First Minister's Christmas Card above and a successful website Bella Caledonia by Scottish writers as 2011 comes to a close we should have much to be happy about.In 2012 we can look forward to more progressive legislation from the Scottish Government. We can build for the 2014 Referendum on independence. This will be with the help of the organisation of the SNP but should reach out to all members and supporters of Scottish independence.As the Scottish nation takes strides forward we should be mindful of a ever increasing polarised society. The unionists are alienated and Scottish Labour are destined to spend years in opposition.However for too long the Scottish people have been exposed to reactionary unionism which created a defeatist mindset a circumstance we should not revisit.As long as we stay focused and positive history is on our side.The Scottish people can enter the new year with a renewed spirit of optimism. Thanks to the changes taking place since the May election.Larry

UK human rights record deplorable for prisoners

2011-12-11T19:55:00.001Z

SACC Press Release
10 December 2011

On International Human Rights Day, 10 December 2011, Scotland Against Criminalising Communities (SACC) is asking world leaders to take action to ban the long-term solitary confinement and isolation of prisoners. The call for action is supported by intellectuals of international standing, legal practitioners, human rights experts, experts on penal policy, and current and former prisoners.

In October, Juan Méndez, UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, told the UN General Assembly that even short-term solitary confinement can amount to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, and that there should be an absolute ban on long-term or indefinite solitary confinement. He proposed a limit of 15 days solitary confinement and urged States to "prohibit the imposition of solitary confinement as punishment."

Now SACC is asking the Governments of 6 key countries - Britain, the USA, France, Germany, Turkey and Australia - to consider introducing domestic legislation that would give effect to the Special Rapporteur's proposals....
Read the full press release And the ill treatment and illegal detention of Irish political prisoner Marian Price is yet another example of human rights abuses by the British state.http://www.causes.com/causes/627113-stop-the-rape-of-marian-price

My Birthday Wish is in honour of Homeless felines

2011-12-06T20:49:00.005Z

For my birthday on December 13th, I'm asking my friends and family for a special gift: help me raise $500 for Project Cat Snip: Sterilize 3,000 Homeless Cats to Reduce Cat Over-Population.

I chose Project Cat Snip: Sterilize 3,000 Homeless Cats to Reduce Cat Over-Population because I want to help homeless cats.

Please consider giving to my Birthday Wish, and together we can make life better for cats. If you can't give now, I'd really appreciate if you'd share this page with your friends.

Thanks so much,

Larry
http://wishes.causes.com/wishes/417188?bws=creation_email_to_creator&m=e69977ed

Miami Beach has a long history of stray cats beginning in 1912 when cats were brought to the beach to fight the rat problem. Unfortunately, human intervention went awry and the cats were left to breed uncontrollably. Many of the cats live under or in abandoned/foreclosed buildings and continue to breed year round due to the warm South Florida weather. In order to break this cycle, we want to sterilize 3,000 homeless cats by offering spay days every month in a project called Project Cat Snip (formally Miami Beach 3000). Every cat sterilized reduces the number of homeless cats and the number of stray cats turned into local high-kill shelters. That’s a tall order to fill, so we need YOUR help:

1. If you live on the Beach, contact us to report a colony of stray cats. info@thecatnetwork.org
2. If you enjoy hunting adventures, join us in cat trapping expeditions. NOTE: we advocate TNR (Trap/Neuter/Return), meaning all the cats we trap will be returned to their original location sterilized, eartipped for identification and rabies-vaccinated.
3. DONATE

* TIME: We want to offer these surgeries for as low a cost as possible, even FREE. But we cannot do it without your help. If you are a veterinarian, veterinary student or veterinary technician; donate some hours working in the comfort of our state of the art spay/neuter vans.
* SPACE: We need air conditioned space, like a large room 30 ft x 30 ft or larger to house the cats after trapping and after surgery in the areas where we are concentrating our trapping efforts. We promise to clean up afterwards!
* MONEY: On average It costs us approximately $40.00 per cat to sterilize and vaccinate. All cats receive antibiotics, pain medication and a rabies vaccine. Since we are an all volunteer organization we rely on donations to fund our efforts to help homeless cats. We are currently seeking to raise money to help defray the cost of the spay days. Anything you can donate would be greatly appreciated.
* PUBLICITY: Get the word out there! Donate radio and television PSAs. Come out and film us for social media publicity. Put an ad in the local newspapers.

Remember, as Alley Cat Allies says, “Cats Outdoors. It's a fact of life. It doesn't have to be a sad fact.” Cat Lovers and Cat Haters unite! Together we can reduce the population of stray cats on Miami Beach while at the same time giving them quality of life and the dignity they deserve.

Thank you for helping to reduce cat over-population and save lives!

Upcoming Project Cat Snip Events

* Aug 25 (Thu.): Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach

Previous Project Cat Snip Events

* July 21, 2011: 46 feral cats sterilized
* June 2011: 40 feral cats sterilized
* May 7, 2011: 33 feral cats sterilized
* April 21, 2011: 32 feral cats sterilized
* March 27, 2011: 38 feral cats sterilized
* February 13, 2011: 37 feral cats sterilized
* January 16, 2011: 51 feral cats sterilized
* December 19, 2010: 49 feral cats sterilized
* November 20: 38 feral cats sterilized
* October 31, 2010: 37 feral cats sterilized
* September 26, 2010: 78 feral cats sterilized
* Spay Certificates: 73 feral cats sterilized

****TOTAL: 552 feral cats sterilized****

Happy St Andrew's Day!

2011-11-30T00:25:00.004Z

Happy St Andrew;s Day from Scotland. It is fitting that I have revamped the Scottish Republican Socialist News website for this important date in the Scottish calendar.

As Scottish Republican Socialists we remember Scottish Revolutionary of Red Clydeside and workers struggle John MacLean in the Anniversary of his death in Glasgow on this day in the year 1923.

The Scottish Republican Socialist News website features articles on John MacLean or visit the Scottish Republican Socialist Movement website: http://scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org

Or visit the SRSM Forum and find a whole section dedicated to John MacLean under the main discussion feature http://scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org/SRSMForum

For John MacLean Speeches & Articles visit;www.marxists.org/archive/maclean/

Read more: http://www.scottish-republican-socialist-news.com/products/john-maclean-speeches-articles/

And finally we Scottish Republican Socialists will keep the memory and spirit of John MacLean alive in our modern day struggle for independence and the Scottish Workers Republic.
All Hail The Scottish Workers Republic!
Suas Le Alba!
Larry

SRSM speech to John MacLean Rally 2011

2011-11-28T19:36:00.003Z

Copy below of this year's speech delivered by Alan Stewart of the Northern England Branch/Commun of the Scottish Republican Socialist Movement.

First of all I bring fraternal greetings from the northern england branch/commun of the Scottish Republican Socialist Movement.

The branch is now a year old. We've met regularly in places like Huddersfield, Stalybridge and Halifax.

We've been on anti-cut marches, including on the TUC March in London.

We've been on a CND demonstration at the US spy base Menwith Hill.

We've met other organisations such as Socialists for a Republic for discussions.

And we are looking to arrange public events -including seminars/workshops/debates- in the year ahead.

Of course there are particular issues -particularly difficulties- for us, as republican socialists, in organising in the north of england.

For the reality is that the labour movement in england hasn't just adapted or simply accommodated itself to the status quo. Over the years it has positively venerated -fawned over- the British constitution.

For most of its life Labour has supported the Union. Backed wars abroad. Opposed real economic political change. Its' members -yes, even its working class members- have often enthused about monarchy and empire.

Because let's be honest about it. Parts of that working class have traditionally seen themselves as part of a labour aristocracy benefitting from that empire and from imperial adventures abroad.

And it's not only the Labour Party that ought to be in the firing line...that ought to be the object of our critique.

Whole sections of the Brit left -including many who see themselves as Marxists or in the Marxist tradition- have a simply shocking record when it comes to the national question, when it comes to Scottish independence and when it comes to British oppression in Ireland.

Our job as republican socialists must be to challenge that chauvinism.

We need to remind the Brit left that the demand for national self determination lies at the heart of internationalism.

We need to remind them that socialists in oppressor nations have a duty to accept and to fight for the rights of oppressed nations.

And we need to remind them -as Marx, Connolly and MacLean would have done- that workers who side with national oppression keep themselves in chains.

And the sad thing is that -freed from its links to the British state- there is a great English socialist radical tradition that could still be revived. The tradition of the Levellers (who refused to fight in Ireland), the Diggers, Thomas Paine, the Chartists...and even up to the present day...how refreshing to hear Billy Bragg's comments about Scottish independence.

So we do face challenges. In fact we all face challenges as republican socialists. We need to build unity for the struggles ahead.

But republican socialist is alive and well. Only last week left wing Basque nationalists -the Amaiur coalition- won several seats in the Spanish Congress and Senate. Our ideas -the ideas of popular sovereignty, national self determination, anti-imperialism and economic social justice- are as relevant as ever.

Relevant at a time of capitalist crisis. At a time when all over the Arab world workers are in revolt. And relevant at a time when bit by bit the Celtic nations are breaking up the British state!

Onwards to Scottish independence! Onwards to Irish freedom! And, as John MacLean would have said, "All Hail the Scottish Workers Republic!

"Thank you comrades for your support!

SRSM John MacLean Rally 2011 Report

2011-11-28T15:35:00.005Z
The Annual John MacLean Commemoration was held in Glasgow on Sunday. Republican Socialists met at Eastwood Cemetery for a graveside oration delivered by Gerry Cairns SRSM.
Then a large march proceeded from Thornliebank Rd to MacLean's Cairn at Shawbridge Shopping Centre where Donald Anderson SRSM greeted the crowd and invited us all back to Shawbridge Tavern for speeches and the social.
Arriving at the Shawbridge Tavern we heard speeches from Gerry Cairns on behalf of the John MacLean Society, a speaker from the Revolutionary Communist Group, Brian Quail from Scottish CND, a speaker from the Celtic League, a solidarity message from a Flemish Socialist Republican and Alan Stewart from the Northern England branch of SRSM.Speakers spoke about the struggle of John MacLean for a Scottish Workers Republic and the consequences of British Imperialism which tried to criminalise political prisoners such as John MacLean and today's experience of Irish Republican prisoners in Maghaberry Gaol north of Ireland. The Celtic League speaker remembered the victims of British concentration camps in South Africa not so long ago just over a hundred years. He also called for independence for the Celtic nations. Brian Quail spoke about the the danger of voting for Devolution Max in the future Independence Referendum in which he outlined that it would change little and we would still have nuclear weapons in Scotland.Alan Stewart spoke of the very active branch of SRSM in England and the many campaigns and marches they are involved in. The next post on Scottish Republic weblog will include a copy of his speech at the John MacLean Rally.In all a very successful day with IRSP Alba and Éirígí representatives at the event including other left forces such as the Revolutionary Communist Group.

Solidarity messages to the Rally also came from IRSP Alba and the International Republican Socialist Network (IRSN) http://irsn.weebly.com who gave firm support for the memory of John MacLean and the Scottish Republican Socialist Movement (SRSM) who host the event every year. Solidarity messages were also received at the Rally from CPS & RSF.

Folk music was provided at the Shawbridge Tavern by the excellent White Rose duo.
SlainteLarry

Reminder SRSM John MacLean Rally 2011 tomorrow

2011-11-26T19:18:00.005Z

Annual John MacLean Rally Sunday November 27 1pm Graveside oration by Gerry Cairns, Eastwood Cemetery (next to Railway Station)Rally leaves prompt 1.30pm across road, corner of Boydston Rd/Thornliebank Rd. Bus leaves North Frederick St George Square 12.15pm prompt. £3 one way.March to John MacLean Cairn, Shawbridge Shopping Centre. Dimiss. Speeches inside Shawbridge Tavern across Rd at High Flats, next to Police Station. £5 admission.White Rose Folk Group Meals optional.SRSM John MacLean Rally Flyer Document

St Andrew's Day Message from Scotland's First Minister

2011-11-26T17:45:00.001Z

An update from the left wing perspective

2011-11-25T22:17:00.005Z
Hi just an update. Coming soon an exclusive to this weblog A friend of mine from Kirkcaldy has been arrested with charges that also include an Anti-English racial comment. As the case is live I cannot comment any further until very soon and when I do it will protect the woman's identity.

I intend to look at the the pointless Anti-English rants of some Scots But also recognise the frustration of many working class and ordinary Scots trapped in the union and the need to solve this matter before and after Scottish independence.

Also I want to discuss here my opposition to the way the Criminal Justice System deals with people with mental health problems. I will reveal my own experience and point out the problem of an inadequate system in the disunited kingdom.

Also I intend to attend the SRSM John MacLean Rally on Sunday so I will report back to this weblog soon.

So two posts coming up from a Scottish Republican Socialist perspective on this weblog that reflects the pro-independence left wing view.
Slainte
Larry

Solidarity's Hugh Kerr joins the SNP

2011-11-15T13:49:00.005Z

Let me be the first socialist and left wing nationalist blogger to welcome Hugh Kerr into the SNP.
Everyone knows that the SNP is the only show in town in Scotland. And it is a party to the left of Scottish Labour. There is room in the SNP for those of us who support an Independent Socialist Scotland. Only with the break up of the British state in which Scotland holds the key can we continue the campaign for a Scottish Workers Republic in earnest.

The far left in Scotland are divided and fractured. And so I think the former SNP MSP Campbell Martin will have little influence in his role since he joined the small Scottish Socialist Party in August
Anyway I also not unlike Hugh Kerr turned my back on Solidarity in April 2010.
The trouble with the SSP and Solidarity is that they spend too much time trying to outdo each other on far left issues at the time. Independence is not always or even seldom top of their political agenda. However republican socialists and other nationalists should welcome their participation in the Scottish Independence Convention and likely campaigning for a Yes vote for the future Independence Referendum. Let us, whatever we think of the far left, not be sectarian. We have our differences not least their constant sniping at the SNP from the far left particularly from their unionist Brit left rump. However we should welcome all pro-independence parties into the political fold.

And there is no contradiction between the civic left of centre nationalism of the SNP and our genuine Internationalism and pro-peace agenda.

Meanwhile I hope Hugh Kerr finds many friends and like minded people in the SNP. We as republican socialists should respect the fact that the SNP is a mere left of centre party of social democracy and ultimate goal of Scottish Independence. There is room for all left leaning opinions in the SNP and rightly so as long as we give our 100% public support to the SNP and Scottish Government in their direction and performance.

The role of the SSP and Solidarity is marginal and limited to the sidelines with little electoral success. Republican Socialists like myself have welcomed the progressive role of SNP in Government and the brilliant landslide by them in May.

It now only leaves me to say that we have work to be done in winning the Independence of Scotland by at least 2014 in which the SNP will legislate and be a powerful influence and force for future Scottish Freedom.

This weblog welcomes Hugh into the SNP and calls on all progressive socialists to do likewise and join the SNP and play their part in the social democratic party to win independence and freedom from the despair of London Rule.
Larry
Sheridan spin doctor defects to SNP
"
When Hugh Kerr was excluded from Glasgow City Chambers, Sheridan, above, secured him entry to the building. Picture: Jane Barlow/TSPL
By Andrew Whitaker
Published on Monday 14 November 2011 23:14
TOMMY Sheridan’s former press chief Hugh Kerr has defected from the convicted perjurer’s Solidarity party to the SNP, claiming he wants to fight for an “independent Socialist Scotland” within Alex Salmond’s nationalists.
Former Labour MEP Mr Kerr told The Scotsman he had held talks with Sheridan during a prison visit to his former boss, whom he insisted was “very sympathetic” to his decision to join the SNP.
He also said that there “could well be” other members of Solidarity planning to defect to the SNP, a move which could see left wingers entering Mr Salmond’s party in a similar tactic used in the 1980s and 1990s to influence Labour by far left groups such as the Militant Tendency.
Sheridan will “review the political situation” before making any decision about his future as convener of Solidarity, Mr Kerr said, and would “discuss with colleagues” his political plans after his expected early release from jail next year.
Mr Kerr, who was expelled from Labour in the late-1990s under Tony Blair’s leadership, said that he had opted to join the SNP because the nationalists had “moved to the left” and that he now wanted to work with other “socialists inside” Scotland’s governing party at Holyrood.
Sheridan’s former press officer also said he would be “delighted” to stand for the SNP as a Holyrood candidate or in the 2012 council’s elections, after contesting a South of Scotland seat in the Scottish Parliament on the Solidarity banner this May.
Mr Kerr, who has already been out leafleting for the SNP and is now a member of the party’s Edinburgh Western branch, said that he “wouldn’t be surprised if other comrades” from Solidarity joined the nationalists.
He said: “There are socialists inside the SNP and I hope to contribute to that by doing my bit to create an independent Socialist Scotland.
“My judgment is that the SNP has moved to the left. I’ve spoken to quite a number of Solidarity supporters and they are sympathetic to my decision.
“I’ve had this discussion with Tommy and he’s very sympathetic. Tommy is focused on his legal situation and he’s studying hard in prison looking into this.” Mr Kerr went on to defend his work in the Scottish Socialist Party (SSP) and the subsequent split of Solidarity, amid internecine warfare between supporters of Sheridan and those who gave evidence in the perjury case that saw the former MSP handed a three-year jail term .
However, Mr Kerr said that the far left had become a “sideshow” as he resigned from Solidarity and claimed that the only way he and other Sheridan supporters could have “any influence” would be to join the SNP.
He said: “The split with the SSP and other factors has meant that the far left is doomed to be a sideshow for a decade and if I’m to have any influence the truth is that this has to be in the SNP, which has the support of the majority of Scots.
“I’m still very much a supporter of Tommy and visited him in Castle Huntly open prison last week.”
Colin Keir, SNP MSP for Edinburgh Western, where Mr Kerr is a member, said: “Hugh is one of many from across the political spectrum giving their support to the SNP as the best party for Scotland’s future. He was out campaigning this weekend and we look forward to his continued support.”
How far left made inroads into mainstream Labour
Before the Solidarity breakaway, the Scottish Socialist Party was formed in 1998 from the Scottish Socialist Alliance, a grouping of left-wing organisations, including Scottish Militant Labour – a Trotskyist group in which Tommy Sheridan was a leading light.
A key Militant tactic up until the early 1990s was for the group’s supporters to join the Labour Party en masse.
Although the group, known at one time as the Militant Tendency, had a powerbase in Scotland it also successfully managed during the 1980s to see three of its members in England elected as MPs. However, Militant’s influence was dramatically reduced after Neil Kinnock expelled some of the group’s most prominent members during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/sheridan_spin_doctor_defects_to_snp_1_1965864

All Hail, the Scottish Workers Republic!

2011-11-14T20:41:00.005Z

Recent opinion polls show a marked increase in support for independence and strong support for greater powers for the Scottish Parliament. However we need to win the arguments for independence by the time the Independence Referendum is enacted in law. There is plenty time for the Scottish Government to improve the lives of the Scottish people and to convince everyone about the need to control the economy, welfare and defence to mention just a few of the most important powers we can have with independence.

With independence for Scotland the greater loser will be the British state particularly where the economy and defence is concerned. Scotland contributes much to Britain particularly by way of taxation and defence. In fact an independent Scotland can remove Trident nuclear missiles from the Clyde costing what is left of the UK billions of pounds.

And so I produce here the article by John MacLean and recognise that by turning back the clock we see not everything has changed when we consider British imperialism. True since then Britain's influence as a world power and colonial aggressor has reduced. However it's grip on Scotland and the north of Ireland or Malvinas remains to this day.

But us genuine socialists, republicans and Scottish communists don't often despair instead look to the example and teachings of John MacLean for our progressive brand of left wing nationalism, socialism and internationalism.

And so we as Scottish Republican Socialists take our insperation from the teachings or writings of John MacLean and James Connolly. And we understand Scottish independence will be a fatal blow to British imperialism instead serving the interests of workers and poor people on these islands in Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales.

Anyway read this favourite article below and draw your own conclusions whether you are a socialist or consider yourself a mere radical.
Larry

All Hail, the Scottish Workers Republic!
by John Maclean
First Published: First issued as All Hail, the Scottish Communist Republic in Aug 1920, and subsequently reissued along with Nov 1922 election address.
Transcription\HTML Markup: Scottish Republican Socialist Movement Archive in 2002 and David Walters in 2003
Copyleft: John MacLean Internet Archive (www.marx.org)1999, 2003. Permission is granted to copy and/or distribute this document under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License
For some time past the feeling has been growing that Scotland should strike out for national independence, as well as Ireland and other lands. This has recently been strengthened by the English Government’s intention to rely mainly on Scottish troops to murder the Irish race.
Genuine Scotsmen recently asked themselves the question: “Are we Scots to be used as the bloody tools of the English against our brother Celts of Erin?” And naturally the instinctive response was - No!
Again the land seizures by Highland crofters are arousing the blood of Highlandmen driven south to the Clyde Valley for work. Especially the filthy tactics of Lord Leverhume (an English capatalist), whohas dismissed Stornoway wage slaves as a means of beating the Lewis raiders who seized the farms of Coll and Gress. Divide and conquer again!
Scottish students of history now realise that Edinburgh lawyers and politicians sold Scottish independence in 1707, although most blame has fallen on the Earl of Stair. many of us are convinced that ever since 1707 the Edinburgh kings’ and queens’ consels and politicians have been in the regular pay of London to keep Scotland as the base tool of the English government. These scoundrels in the eighteenth century helped to ruin Burns, the peasnats’ and people’s poet.
The “rebellion” of 1715 and 1745 were natural reactions against the treachorous deed of 1707, but these unfortunate outbursts but gave the English the excuse and chance to subdue the Highland chiefs and then corrupt them with an English education at Oxford and Cambridge.
Since 1790 the chiefs became Englishmen in outlook, and used their clansmen to defend English capatalism against the revolution started in Paris in 1789. Since the Napoleonic wars the Highland regiments have been used to defend the stolen lands of England all over the globe, and have largely helped to extend the English empire.
Whilst doing this, the Dukes of Sutherland and Argyll and other chiefs proceeded with the english landlord policy of land clearances. The friends of the fighters were chased of their native heath into the lowlands or out to Canada and Australia.
Now the reaction is beginning - inspired by Ireland and Russia. Scotland must again have independednce, but not to be ruled over by traitor cheifs and politicians. The communism of the clans must be re-established on a modern basis. (Bolshevism, to put it roughly, is but the modern expression of the communism of the mir.) Scotland must therfore work itself into a communism embracing the whole country as a unit. The country must have but one clan, as it were - a united people working in co-operation and co-operatively, using the wealth that is created.
We can safely say, then: back to communism and forward to communism.
The control must be in the hands of the workers only, male and female alike, each workshop and industry sending delegates to district councils and the National Council. The National Council must be based in or near Glasgow, as half the population lives within a radius of twenty miles from Glasgow.
In the period of transition a wage-earners dictatorship must guide production, and the adoption of the machinery and methods of production, to communist methods.
Many Irishmen live in Scotland, and, as they are Celts like the Scots, and are out for Irish independence, and as wage-earners have been champion fighters for working class rights, we expect them to ally themselves with us, and help us to attain our Scottish Communist Republic, as long as they live in Scotland. Irishmen must remember that communism prevailed amongst the Irish clans as amongst the Scottish clans, so that, in lining up with Scotsmen they are but carrying forward the traditions and instincts of the Celtic race.
All hail the Scottish Workers’ Republic!
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The struggle for a Scottish Workers Republic will continue

2011-11-13T19:40:00.005Z

I have renamed the Case For Scottish Democracy now to be called the Scottish Workers Republic website http://dawnofliberation.weebly.com.

That leaves another two websites I edit for the cause of Scottish Republican Socialism.

Scottish Republican Socialist News for updates on Scottish Events happening in Scotland
http://www.scottish-republican-socialist-news.com

And the Scottish Socialist Freedom Project which is an Scottish Republican Socialist communication organisation on the Internet.
http://ssfg.weebly.com

This means I edit three websites and also operate six Yahoo Groups and one Google group.

And so I am active on the Internet but also believe in taking the struggle out into the community.

Well I do intend attending the SRSM John MacLean Commemoration 2011 this year in which I will report back to the Scottish Republic weblog.

And so that is what I believe in taking the struggle to the Internet and on to the streets of Scotland.

Meanwhile I will pay extra attention to this weblog in the run up to the Scottish Independence Referendum and ultimate independence.

And while writing this weblog I will monitor the progress of the Scottish Government and the popularity of the SNP and will resist any attempt by the Brit sirens in Westminster London to threaten to hijack the Scottish Independence Referendum, by involvement by me and others, campaigning and spreading the message of the sovereignty of the Scottish people and the right to shape our own political destiny and ultimate freedom.

Anyway stick with Scottish Republic weblog as a reader and visit my regularly updated websites for the latest in republican socialist news. Because Scotland will be Free as we only have our chains to lose.
Larry

Independence Referendum and the Great Debate

2011-11-09T07:43:00.005Z

There are some healthy and unhealthy comments coming through various blogger sites about the future independence referendum. However more debate is required among the various pro-independence political parties, organisations and most importantly the Scottish Left. Already an interest in independence and the referendum is being commented upon by progressive online sites such as Scottish Left Review, Newsnet Scotland and Bella Caledonia.

Anyway I must add firstly, before the referendum I would prefer that Devolution Max was clearly defined and what powers the Scottish Parliament will get before this option appears on the ballot paper. And let me say it is unfair to simply throw such a question in the SNP's direction without hearing the position of the Unionists and importantly their parties such as Scottish Labour.

And then there is the smaller divided far left parties and their platforms such as SSP, Solidarity, SWP or CWI in Scotland. They need to go beyond simply giving lip service to independence and enter the debate about the referendum which could be a matter of only three years or so away.

Then I am sure we can expect support for independence and the Yes vote from the Scottish Greens.

And significantly one senior figure in Scottish CND has said that: “the prospect of independence looks like the only serious opportunity in the coming years of ending the UK’s nuclear role”. Since any independent Scottish government could immediately disarm Trident by rejecting the presence of nuclear warheads in Scottish territory and as a result, Trident would be unable to operate anywhere else in the UK for decades as significant logistical and financial requirements for its relocation would arise.
Source Scottish Left Review Issue 67

Anyhow in some circles the debate over the referendum has started and is underway and slowly we are hearing the useful and not so useful views from political commentators. What has happened is that with the SNP launch of the independence referendum campaign (at conference) it has forced unionist and nationalist alike and others to debate the merits or issue of independence from their own point of view.

And online forums such as 'Our Scotland' are experiencing plenty debate on independence and the referendum.

What I do hope will happen is that the SNP and the other pro-independence supporters across Scotland can educate the Scottish public about the important benefits and advantages of independence well before the legislation for the referendum is even put in place.

Already recent opinion polls are showing a healthy increased support for independence but because a week is a long time in politics it is best not to read too much into them and be complacent.

After all the SNP landslide victory in May this year was not expected or forecast.

One recent opinion poll conducted gave a majority for Devo Max but that is without knowing exactly what powers or lack of powers the Scottish Parliament would be promised if voters opted for that choice in the referendum.

Anyway the SNP have played the game nicely and will produce a referendum that can change the status quo and lead to independence either sooner or later.

The No camp or unionists in the referendum and independence debate are divided and confused or badly organised from Scotland to UK level while all we need to do in the Yes camp is make sure we have our own house in order because we are better armed with the arguments to win the referendum in our favour.

And I also must add that I look forward to the important role played by the Scottish Independence Convention in the coming months and years.
Larry

London government hits weakest on welfare

2011-11-08T15:45:00.005Z

The shocking news is that according to the Herald Scotland today 115,000 Scots ‘will lose their incapacity benefit.’ http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/115-000-scots-will-lose-their-incapacity-benefit-1.1133639 This is unacceptable that cuts to welfare and these austerity measures happen to target the poor.

Only through independence can we have a welfare system worthy of it's name.

And according to Plaid Cymru Assembly Member and socialist Leanne Wood AM 75,000 people will no longer be eligible for incapacity benefit by 2014 in Wales. http://leannewoodamac.blogspot.com/2011/11/benefits-cuts-to-hit-wales-harder.html

The reality is that the British and Westminster cannot be trusted to provide for the weak, sick and jobless poor.

We need the Welsh and Scottish Governments to shout loudly and do something about it.

In Scotland and Wales welfare is not devolved and here the benefits system is unlikely to be devolved under Devolution Max.

This is a pressing issue to oppose, which must command full support from both Plaid Cymru and the SNP to campaign against benefit cuts and all austerity measures threatening our public services.

From poverty in the former coalfield communities in Wales to inner cities in Scotland and rural that are choosing between eating and heating we must campaign throughout the whole of the disunited kingdom for a fairer stable generous welfare system.

Sadly the opposite is true and the we need to fight back against the Westminster cuts on mass to include the right to work and dignity on welfare.

Scottish Republic weblog will continue to monitor cuts to public services and the need for greater welfare rights in the Celtic countries in the foreseeable future and beyond until independence at home and elsewhere is established that is freedom from London Rule.
Larry

Scotland and EU membership?

2011-11-07T13:25:00.006Z

I publish here the interesting article below on Scotland being welcome in the EU after Independence.

However as Scottish Republic is a left wing pro-independence weblog I shall not be supporting EU membership post-independence. Why? Because this is a Republican Socialist weblog that argues against such capitalist institutions and also rejects the monarchy.

I have to agree with one commentator on the Newsnet Scotland website that the Scottish people (that is those permanently residing in Scotland) be given a referendum within 5 years of independence (or sooner?) on whether to decide membership of the EU or not. This is the most Democratic right of the Scottish people to decide on what sort of independent Scotland they want.

However Scottish Republic weblog will continue to argue in favour of a Scottish Socialist Republic and only through the democratic wishes of the Scottish people.

A major constitutional change such as independence and membership of the EU means that it is only fair to consult the Scottish people and allow them to choose by way of referendum.

Scottish Republic meanwhile will argue for an Independent Socialist Scotland or Workers Republic free of capitalism, and also free of the queen and her crown powers.

However I trust the Scottish people will do what they think best to deliver independence and increased democracy post independence. But it is only fair that major constitutional matter such as membership of the EU and the ditching of the monarchy be put to the vote for every citizen in an independent Scotland.

However because of this stance I take, it does not mean I am reformist. I do support Marxist revolution or Revolution Not Devolution but the conditions for revolution have to be right and not something thought up by the wishful thinking heavily infiltrated Brit Left.

Scottish Republic is a socialist weblog and supports Scottish independence to free ourselves from the near dead British colonial empire. Scottish independence, I believe will increase democracy and freedom and create the best conditions to struggle for a Workers Republic by revolutionary or democratic means. A constitutional settlement that includes capitalism is not on my agenda. But increased democracy and freedom is. And why Scottish Republic unashamedly backs Scottish independence through the wishes of the Scottish people. Anyway independence is necessary for full fiscal freedom, cultural reasons and a new start in these dark times of British cutbacks from Westmonster. Greater democracy and increased cultural interest not to mention a surge in tourism (and ex-pat Scots returning home) are what we can look forward too.

I advise Scots not to be seduced by talk of Devolution Max, and particularly when answering opinion polls on the subject. Only through independence can we break free from British imperialist interests and NATO warmongering.

On the question of the EU I am not an anti-European bore but realisticly want true freedom from not just London Rule but greedy capitalism in general. I am proud of our European cultural ties which need not be fiscal, legal or economic. Perhaps we should also look to countries such as Norway for some inspiration.
Larry
Anyway enough for now here is the interesting Newsnet article published below:

EU would want an independent Scotland as a member
SATURDAY, 05 NOVEMBER 2011 19:36
182 COMMENTS
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by a Newsnet reporter

SNP MEP Alyn Smith has welcomed comments by Professor Henri De Waele, senior lecturer in EU law at Radboud University in Nijmegen in the Netherlands, which supported EU membership for an independent Scotland. Prof De Waele said that other member nations would be open to ensuring that Scotland quickly became a member in her own right.
Prof de Waele is an internationally respected academic specialising in EU law. His remarks give a lie to the claim often made by Unionist supporters that Scotland would be shunned by Europe and left out in the cold. The professor also backed the claim made by supporters of independence that Scotland would rapidly achieve EU membership, pointing out that as a part of an existing member state, Scotland already complies with EU membership criteria. The professor said that he expected Scottish membership would progress very quickly.

Prof De Waele also pointed out that even were the rump-UK to be considered the successor state to the existing UK, it would still be forced to re-negotiate the terms of its EU membership.

As a state controlling large oil resources, and an extraordinary capacity for renewable energy production, supporters of independence believe that other European states would be keen to ensure that an independent Scotland remained a member of the EU.

Prof De Waele has given a boost to the independence camp by saying that there would be no legal impediment whatsoever to Scotland becoming independent or to achieving EU membership. Speaking to the BBC Scotland's Newsweek Programme on Saturday, Prof De Waele said:

"From an EU perspective, people would be very open to, quite quickly, make sure that Scotland would become a full member in its own right.

"There is no impediment whatsoever to Scotland, as such, being let's say a lawfully separated state or lawfully separated territory from the UK, becoming a state in its own right, or indeed henceforth trying to get its way into the EU ASAP."

Welcoming Prof De Waele's contribution, SNP MEP Alyn Smith said:

"Scotland is well respected and known across the world, and nowhere more so than with our friends and neighbours in the European Union.

"It is encouraging that European Union experts like Professor De Waele have rightly gone some way to putting myths to bed about any issues facing an independent Scotland's ability to have the choice to be in the EU.

"Scotland already exists and is recognised within the EU, all be it as part of the UK at present.

"However, speaking with politicians from all over Europe on a regular basis they are very interested and supportive of our nation's growing desire to become independent."
http://newsnetscotland.com/index.php/scottish-politics/3603-eu-would-want-an-independent-scotland-as-a-member.html

My Yahoo Groups for information and discussion

2011-11-06T17:37:00.005Z

Once again I have decided to advertise the Yahoo Groups which have been set up to encourage debate and provide information on the web.

Firstly reds4justice is an independent republican socialist group of 59 members dedicated to socialist republics on these islands and independence for the Celtic nations. Sometimes individuals post but Yahoo Groups are not known for much debate although there are exceptions. However there is plenty news posted on this group and provides a platform to support political prisoners. Anyone who is nationalist, republican or socialist is welcome to apply to join. Click here on reds4justice and click on the blue join button on the page.

Secondly is the Scottish Socialist Freedom Project which is a discussion group around the principle of a Scottish Workers Republic. Debate is rare with just 19 members however posts relevant to Scottish Socialism or Republican Socialism are regular and provide information of such and also news of Scottish Events or happenings in Scotland.

Thirdly the Forum for Scottish Democracy has just 12 members so far. It is a group for Scottish Republic news and debate. Scotland faces massive cuts in public spending on frontline services. This group recognises that coupled with the cuts is the democratic defecit that the ConDem government have not a mandate to rule in Scotland. The only solution to escape the cuts and UK financial mess is Scottish Independence.
This group welcomes independence as a means to a Scottish Workers Republic. This group is to discuss a way forward for the pro-independence left.

Number four is the SNP Supporters Group which has eight members and is open to members and supporters of the SNP. It provides informative posts on the SNP and the Scottish Government. News on Scottish independence issues are also covered here.

Number five is the Kirkcaldy and Fife Yahoo Group. This group is dedicated to discussion and information about Kirkcaldy and Fife. Welcome are residents, former residents and those interested in the culture and community around Kirkcaldy and the Fife region.

And finally number six is The Relaxation Cafe. Mental health problems affect one in four of us at some time in our lives. I am a user of their services. But even those of us who do not suffer a mental illness need to avoid too much stress. Join this group with a cuppa coffee or tea and discuss how you have been doing or how your day has been.
This group can discuss stress and mental health issues in a safe environment.

This group has ten members and includes occasional comments posted and regular pick me up posts to increase self-confidence.

And so we have it I hope readers here will consider joining one or more of these (spam free) groups in which I do not like some others neglect these groups but rather post on a regular basis.

All new members will be considered welcome and encouraged to contribute to the groups I have set up over the years.

Best Wishes and hope you will join us.
Larry

SRSM Annual John MacLean Rally 2011

2011-11-04T22:05:00.009Z

Assemble 1pm at MacLean's Grave in Eastwood cemetery for oration followed by march from Boydston Road outside cemetry gates to the MacLean Cairn at Pollockshaws shopping centre for Rally with speakers then social nearby. Sunday 27th November All welcome. www.scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org
Scottish Republican Socialist News

Scottish Not British

2011-10-29T16:43:00.005+01:00

Just some of the artwork posted on the Scottish Patriots website. The message is loud and clear we are Scottish Not British despite having to carry a UK passport. I do not believe in Britishness and see it as a political concept to keep us in our place locked inside the disunited kingdom.

Most Scots would see themselves as firstly Scottish anyhow. Right click on the images and click on Save As to save these pictures in my documents. Spread the message in society and on the web.

Scottish independence will happen and we can end the unionist lie or claim that we are all British despite being Celts.
Larry

SNP launch independence referendum campaign

2011-10-23T19:29:00.005+01:00

http://scotlandforward.net

The SNP has officially launched its drive for independence, announcing details of an "unprecedented" campaign to win the forthcoming referendum.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-15419108

Campaign chief Angus Robertson told his party's conference the SNP would appeal to people from all political backgrounds to secure a "yes" vote.

The Moray MP told the packed conference hall in Inverness: "Fellow nationalists - this is it. It's starting.
"This is the roadmap to independence - the biggest ever campaign in our history, reaching every household, every voter in Scotland.
"We will speak with as many voters as possible - supporters, waverers and people who have yet to be convinced."
Mr Robertson declared: "This campaign is not for the SNP - it is a campaign for Scotland.
"This is a campaign for everyone who lives in this country, regardless of where you come from."
And there is a very good article by non party activist Kevin Williamson over at Bella Caledonia
http://bellacaledonia.org.uk/2011/10/23/the-snp-in-inverness-the-independence-ball-is-now-rolling/#comment-6696
What is clear is that we are going to have to deliver the message of Yes to independence street by street. I am very pleased I think the SNP have laid the ground work in a campaign that should involve all political parties that support independence and non party political activists.
The active participation of the Scottish Independence Convention will also be valuable and crucial to unite the political parties for independence and non party or non political activists.
http://www.scottishindependenceconvention.com
The SNP have the framework in place and it is up to all open minded people to come on board.

The message we need to get out there is that the campaign is for everyone regardless of who they voted for. The need to use our own sovereign right to create a sovereign independent nation.

The website is already up and running http://scotlandforward.net to take Scotland forward and rally around.

While I recognise the SNP understand they should not be left to do this alone I think the SNP have done a fantastic amount of thinking and groundwork to set the ball in motion for Scottish Independence. Scottish Republic weblog shall be supporting the Scotland Forward initiative plus useful input from the Scottish Independence Convention.

With the unionists panicking and in disarray the effort with a bit of leg work can secure a positive result in the referendum with a clear victory for the "Yes" campaign.
Larry

Alex Salmond on Scotland's independence (video)

2011-10-23T15:49:00.001+01:00

Independence the focus of First Minister speech

2011-10-23T09:47:00.003+01:00

Alex Salmond's speech to the Inverness Conference on independence yesterday must lay to rest unionist rumours that the SNP is back tracking on it's key policy initiative.

The rallying cry was for independence and to fight "full square" to go it alone.

However the First Minister did concede to the relevance of full fiscal responsibility or devolution max almost certain to be on the ballot paper of the referendum.

Before his address, it had been reported Mr Salmond would announce plans for a second question on the ballot paper dealing with Devolution Max, but while he made no direct mention of it yesterday, there was a hint when he told delegates: “Fiscal responsibility, financial freedom, real economic powers is a legitimate proposal. It could allow us to control our own resources, introduce competitive business tax, and fair personal taxation.
Source Scottish Daily Express.

While a degree of full financial freedom and extra powers is good under devolution max it is not sufficient for those of us who want full control of Scotland defence and to be a non-nuclear country

.And Alex pointed out the importance of renewable energy in yesterday's speech and the disparity betweeen fuel poverty and what is supposed to be an energy rich country

But the main theme of yesterday's speech was rightly independence.

.In his address – which mentioned the word independence six times – Mr Salmond insisted Scotland’s constitutional future would not be determined by Westminster.
He said: “The days of Westminster politicians telling Scotland what to do or what to think are over. The Scottish people will set the agenda for the future.
“No politician, and certainly no London politician, will determine the future of the Scottish nation. The Prime Minister should hear this loud and clear. The people of Scotland, the sovereign people of Scotland, are now in the driving seat.”
Mr Salmond said he believed independence was the right way forward for Scotland and insisted: “We shall prevail.”
He said: “We have the talent, resources and ingenuity. The only limitations are our imagination and our ambition. So give Scotland the tools, put the people of Scotland in charge and see our nation flourish as never before.
“Robert Kennedy once said, ‘the future is not a gift, it is an achievement’. That is true for Scotland as for any nation. Our future will be what we make it.”
Mr Salmond also unveiled new policy announcements, including a pledge to build 30 new schools and help 200,000 additional families heat their homes.
Source Scottish Daily Express

And finally but significantly the speech also promised a motion to be tabled at the Scottish Parliament on the 'claim of right' for Scottish people to have the sovereign right to determine their own constitutional destiny and thereby preserve the right to hold a referendum without Westminster interference.
In short a rousing speech to a packed audience at the SNP's biggest ever conference. There is room for hope and optimism in the interesting months and years that lie ahead.
Larry

Nationalist camp in buoyant mood to win referendum

2011-10-22T11:29:00.008+01:00

There has been much interest in the proposed timing of the referendum. The First Minister Alex Salmond has said that it is deferred to the latter half of the present Parliamentary session at Holyrood.

This is OK as the SNP have from now until the referendum campaign to successfully govern while the Tories will be out to cut the Scottish budget in another wave of unpopular austerity measures the Conservatives will impose on us north of the border.

The key therefore to a successful referendum "Yes" campaign is to directly challenge the Tories and their struggling LIb Dem partners for not having a mandate to govern in Scotland. This question of a democratic mandate lacking from politicians in London has come up in previous years and is due to revisit the Scottish people once again.

It is relevant that the unionists are also divided. Nicola Sturgeon noted at SNP Conference that JIm Murphy of Labour was reluctant to share a platform with British PM David Cameron.

Ms Sturgeon said that Mr Murphy was "quite happy to let the same Tory Prime Minister keep the power to cut Scotland's budget."

And so it is not surprising the Nationalists are in buoyant mood at the Inverness Conference.

Well there is room for optimism in the Nationalist camp and I agree with Nicola we will win the referendum.

However neither should there be space for complacency the unionists will surely speculate about the state of the world finances and economy to argue against independence. However we need to be prepared to counter unionist propaganda and point to the straight-jacket situation that constrains Scotland under mere Devolution.

We also must argue that the Devolution max path will only bring limited benefits keeping Trident nuclear missiles on the Clyde and more blood split in needless foreign wars.

The role of the SNP in the independence referendum "Yes" campaign will be interesting and fundamentally important. There is also a role to play by the Scottish Independence Convention so I will watch their website over the coming months and years.
Larry

Scottish Workers Republic - Latest Edition

2011-10-05T12:04:00.003+01:00

Hi All

The latest edition of the Scottish Workers Republic the journal for the Scottish Republican Socialist Movement is now available for purchase. This is a bumper 32 page post election special and articles include The Crisis of Capitalism: Towards a Republican Scotland - Gerry Cairns, Cultural Imperialism - Eric Canning, Lessons From the Tragedy in Libya - Peter Urban, On The Brink - Brian Quail, Hono...uring the Scots who Fought Franco - Stephen Coyle, James Connolly 1868-1916 An Unrepentant Socialist - Dr James D Young (this is a taster for his forthcoming book which will be in print soon), There is an article by Jim Clayson which looks at the possibility that he has uncovered another lost work by Robert Burns titled "To Lord Chief Justice Eyre" as well as an article relating to the Proscripton Act of 1746 which was written by Alexander MacDonald 1700-1770 who joined the Jacobite Army in 1745 and was appointed to teach Gaelic to Charles Edward Stuart. The poem is in Gaelic and English.

This edition has lots lots more, buy your copy now £3 + P+P from the SRSM, P.O. BOX 16887, GLASGOW, G11 9EP , SCOTLAND. Please make cheques / postal orders out to SRSM, payment can also be made via PAYPAL our payment address is -
info@scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org

UK postage is £1, Europe £2, Rest of the World £3

Labour in disarray in Scotland

2011-09-25T11:49:00.003+01:00

LABOUR leadership contender Tom Harris has warned that Labour's complacency will "kill the party and kill the Union" in a dramatic pitch for the party's top job in Scotland.
Harris has claimed that the leadership contest has become a "life or death election" for the party, arguing that it is "quite conceivable" that Labour could follow the path of the Conservatives and cease to be relevant north of the Border. That is what is reported today in Scotland On Sunday.
http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/news/Tom-Harris-fears-Labour-party.6842145.jp

And it is true with the result in the May elections this year was a blow to the unionists for failing to put Scottish interests first. In fact the majority of the voters expressed satisfaction with the SNP Administration record in Government.. And the relevant reality is that if competence can be shown by SNP politicians within the tough job of devolved administration then the task of governing an Independent Scotland also competently would be far easier.

The Unionists are running scared with the desire for change being expressed by the Scottish people. No longer should these sycophants or London obsessed idiots be allowed to take Scotland for granted.

Putting Scotland first remains the sacred territory of the SNP while the other mainstream Scottish parties unfortunately
take orders from their bosses in London.

SNP activist and Republican Socialist Joe Middleton has sent a letter to the Scotsman regarding Labour's failure to put Scottish interests first and it can be read on his weblog by clicking here on the link.http://politicalnewsfromscotland.blogspot.com/2011/09/labour-dont-put-scotland-first.html

A Labour demise north of the border has already begun even within their West of Scotland heartlands and what will emerge should be a new realism or new political thinking amongst the politicians or unionists

Scotland is already looking like a nation that is ready for radical constitutional change and eventual independence.
Larry

Supporting pro-independence media online

2011-09-22T18:52:00.004+01:00

You may have noticed I have added two images for Newsnet Scotland on the right hand page bar on the weblog. This is because I believe in unbiased media in Scotland at least what we can source for information in this interesting digital age.

I have included the picture linking to Newsnet Scotland's articles in the Scots Language. I beg to differ from cynics and believe the Scots Language is still rich in our culture in writing and speech. At least when I worked volunteering in Ireland in the 1990s European students thought I spoke differently to their knowledge of basic English.

So we should be proud of our culture and heritage and preserve what is unique today in the Scots Language.

I am also an advocate for the survival of Scottish Gaelic and anything that remains in Scottish tradition from the many aspects of our culture.

And I do not like the Unionists complaining that we have no right to be nationalistic as they exploit our culture because it is easy to do so in a stateless nation.

For the first time in this generation Scots have a new self-confidence that is unstoppable in terms of social and constitutional change. However the change in the political and social climate has been slow but more apparent in recent times and the SNP victory landslide in May this year.

There is renewed optimism in the country which I can sense despite the negative sounding media and Westminster siren of despair.

In Scotland's history we are very much at a crossroads to strike out against London Rule and demand a country where we can run our own affairs and make our own decisions.

This weblog will continue to support all routes to constitutional change and most importantly Scottish Freedom. For democracy does not come easy but can do with the support of all Scots in our society and with those interested in political change.

And I have made a lot of effort to put this weblog together with a wealth of information with the most progressive links and news information feeds. Yet I still come across new and interesting pro-independence sites popping up from time to time on the Internet.

And I give special priority to Newsnet Scotland today as I think it is a great read online and refreshing news on a daily basis.

Enjoy your surfing and I shall post here again soon.
Slainte
Larry

My experience with Irish Navan Travellers

2011-09-19T23:48:00.004+01:00

It was the around 1994 when I firstly (as a voluntary youth worker) joined International Voluntary Service (IVS) or known as Voluntary Service International (VSI) in Dublin.

My first summer project was with Navan Travellers in Co.Meath.

Myself and other international students from various European countries were keen to work hard for the project in hand to provide a successful summer project for the kids.

We worked hard and joined the Travellers in the evening for a drink and song.

They were steeped in generations of Travelling culture and Irishness.

I was also impressed at their enthusiasm for Irish Traveller Rights despite rejection and discrimination from the so-called settled community.

They earned my respect and I theirs. It was a meeting of minds and a chance to support an ethnic minority who even suffered racism.

What I liked about the Travellers was that they were keen to be on the move taking us students down to Galway for a break.

I got very close to them but I was from a different culture despite efforts from them to persuade me to join their progressive and mobile families.

I am pleased to find a Travellers website for the Meath folks @ http://www.travellerheritage.ie

It was the Navan Travellers Workshop which was around the summer project I was based. The local community worker was called Theresa O' Brien at the time and I carried out two summer projects for 1994/5. She kindly gave me a reference which I still have the letter with the logo Navans Travellers Workshop Ltd on the page heading.

I learnt a few valuable lessons from the Travellers in Navan Co. Meath about how to enjoy life and a social without worrying about governments or the establishment. In other words the Travellers were free and at liberty in their mindset to think and do within reasonable boundaries what the hell they wanted.

And so my thoughts today are with the Travellers of Dale Farm in Essex who have won a victory for only the meantime http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-14978942

Also read the excellent Bella Caledonia article @ http://bellacaledonia.org.uk/2011/09/19/dale-farm-hurtling-backwards/

Anyway I am all for Travellers Rights, so rock on and stay within a healthy frame of mind as life is too short for being over critical of minority cultures!

Slainte
Larry

John MacLean: Biographical Note - John Broom M.A.

2011-09-19T16:38:00.004+01:00

Hi I received an email this afternoon from the good people of SRSM as follows;

The above titled article is now available to be read at the link below from the SRSM website.

This article was first published in 1967 in the Scottish Vanguard before the author brought out his book on John MacLean.

http://scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org/SRSMArticlesJohnMacLeanbioraphicalnotesjohnbroom.asx

Enjoy reading

'Hugh MacDiarmid', in a series of three articles in "The Scots Socialist" in 1940 & 41wrote of the difficulty confronting anyone attempting to write a biography of John MacLean. "To do so is to handle lightning... to write such a book would lead one to commit in the name of reality many a sin against left utopianism, for one must report the ridiculous, the inefficient and the reactionary in the Communist movement, as well as its noble, delightful, intelligent and moving aspects'. James Maxton and MacLean's younger daughter both attempted the task, but gave up because they came to the conclusion that they were too personally involved in the turbulent story, MacDiarmid himself had a go, but pressure of work forced him too to abandon the considerable undertaking. Now, after many vicissitudes, and set-backs, the present writer has succeeded in completing a full scale biography which, it is hoped, may soon be published. The following article is intended as a short appetiser.

Son of a Potter

John MacLean was born in Pollokshaws in 1879 the sixth child of a potter, who had been forced to move south from his father's croft in Mull during the hungry forties of the last century. John's mother was also Highland born and bred, and after her husband's premature death from 'potters chest' she brought up her large family single-handed. John wrote of this period, "It was the knowledge of the sacrifice made and self-denial endured by my mother and sisters to enable me to be educated, that made me resolve to use my education in the service of the workers". Maclean graduated, "M.A.", in 1904 at Glasgow University, and became a teacher of general subjects in various schools under the Govan School Board. But his consuming interest from early manhood was the emancipation of the working classes. By reading Blatchford's "Merrie England", he was converted to Socialism and by "Das Kapital" to Marxism. He felt that in Marxism he had found a philosophy which would put his, as yet unformed, Socialistic ideas on a scientific basis, and give a meaning to his life.

The 'Social Democratic Federation'.

Around 1903 he joined the Social Democratic Federation, a Marxist organisation founded by H.M. Hyndman in London in 1880, and swiftly became the principal speaker and debater of the Scottish Branch. Up to the outbreak of the 1914 war he stumped the length and breadth of the country, organising strikes, leading processions of the unemployed and agitating tirelessly for the overthrow of the capitalist economy. In 1911 the 'British Socialist Party' was formed by an amalgamation of the S.D.F. the 'Independent Labour Party', 'The Clarion' groups and various other left-wing societies. H.M. Hyndman was appointed chairman. But there was grave dissention within the new Party, almost from the start, Hyndman and some of his colleagues had become very jingoistic in their ideas, and were calling for a big navy to defend Britain from possible German aggression. They were opposed bitterly by the 'internationalists' within the B.S.P., including of course, MacLean, When war was declared in 1914 the great majority of Socialists everywhere threw their principles, courage and honour to the winds and pledged full support to their native country's cause. Yet, in spite of the great general betrayal there were a few brave men in every land who remained true to their International Socialist faith, including James Connolly and John MacLean in the British Isles.

Anti-imperialism and Imprisonment.

From the beginning MacLean never doubted for a second that the war was basically an imperialist struggle for markets and as such totally wrong. By his example, he inspired the converted and strengthened the waverers. The B.S.P. party organ, 'Justice', which was controlled by the Hyndman faction was violently pro-war from the start, and after September 1914 all articles by MacLean were banned. To counteract the influence of 'Justice', MacLean in 1915, launched a vigorous anti-war periodical of his own which he called, like those who have initiated the present brave venture, "The Vanguard". In October, 1915, MacLeanwas arrested and charged with making speeches likely to prejudice recruiting. In particular he was alleged to have said, "I have been enlisted in the Socialist Army - God damn all other armies". After his trial he was convicted and sent to prison for five days after refusing to pay a £5 fine. At the same time he was dismissed as a teacher, by the Govan School Board, ostensibly for insubordination. Freed now from school duties, MacLean threw all his energies into the anti-war struggle. But the Government were now prepared to go to any length to curb the Clyde "wild men'. Early in 1916 The Glasgow "Forward", (then edited by Tom Johnston), MacLean's "Vanguard" and the newly established "Clyde Worker" were suppressed. MacLean was arrested again in February and charged with sedition. He was found guilty and sentenced to three years imprisonment. He suffered considerably, but as a result of tremendous working-class agitation, he was released after fourteen months.

"Is labouring according to true principles for our country we are labouring for humanity; Our country is the fulcram of the lever which we have to wield for the common good". (Mazzini)

The Great Russian Revolution, November 1917

The Bolshevik revolution in November 1917 filled Socialists everywhere with the hope that a world-wide workers' uprising
against capitalism was at hand. But nowhere was the jubilation more intense than on the 'Red Clyde', Lenin, early in 1918
appointed MacLean as the first Bolshevik Consul in Scotland, But he had barely started on his duties when he was once more arrested for seditious activity and convicted. This time he got five years. During this trial he delivered his famous speech from the dock, containing the words,"! come here, not as the accused but the accuser of capitalism, dripping with blood from head to foot". The armistice in 1918 cut short this sentence, but MacLean's health had been gravely affected. He had been on hunger strike for some months, as he believed his food was being drugged. However, he stood for Labour in the Gorbals at the General Election in December, and, although well beaten by the Coalition candidate, George Barnes, he polled nearly 7,500 votes. In the years following the armistice MacLean continued to fight unceasingly on behalf of the down-trodden. Unemployment loomed large after 'the glorious war to end wars', and tired hungry and dispirited men could be seen at every street, corner. MacLean addressed meeting after meeting and wrote articles on their behalf. For his pains he was the guest of His Majesty for two further terms in 1921 and 1922, though this time under much less rigorous conditions.

A Scottish Communist Party.

In 1920 the Communist Party of Great Britain was formed from an amalgamation of various left-wing organisations, including the British Socialist Party. Maclean however, refused to join, as he wanted a distinctively Scottish Communist Party and one which could not be dictated to from Moscow. Gradually, he became more and more antipathetic towards Willie Gallacher, Tom Bell, Harry McShane and the other 'official' communists who, he believed, were betraying the working classes. Early in 19231 having ceased to call himself a communist, he founded the "Scottish Workers' Republican Party" and in the General Election of the same year put himself forward as a candidate under this label, but he caught a chill through campaigning in all weathers, developed pneumonia, and died on November, 30th., a week before polling day.

Working Class Education - "The Scottish Labour College"

MacLean's greatest positive achievement was probably in the sphere of working class education. For over ten years his weekly evening Economics Classes attracted hundreds of workers and gave many of them a startling new insight into the economic
forces governing their lives under capitalism. In 1916 MacLean founded the Scottish Labour College, which had been his dream for many years. Unfortunately the College declined drastically during his various terms of imprisonment, and after quarrelling with various members of the committee, MacLean eventually resigned. The College did not survive him for long. Ever since MacLean's death the orthodox communists have been claiming that his mind became unhinged during his later years, and that this accounts for his antogonism toward the newly-formed Communist Party and his advocacy of a 'Scottish Workers' Republic'. William Gallacher, in his "Revolt on the Clyde" and Tom Bell in his monograph on MacLean repeat this assertion 'ad nauseum'. There is no use denying that following his dreadful prison experiences in 1918 MacLean became increasingly suspicious of even his closest friends. He clearly did develop a kind of persecution complex that made him imagine at times that almost everyone's hand was against him. He delivered many scathing denunciations of his former comrades and associates and some, (especially those against Gallacher) were of a personal virulence which cannot be defended or even excused. But it is a gross exaggerationto deduce from this that Maclean at this time was mentally diseased. There is a world of difference between insanity and delusions of persecution to which we are all subject occasionally. MacLean's speeches and writings during his last years, andespecially his private letters to his wife and daughters, the last of which was written only a fortnight before his death, reveal no trace of mental derangement. The onus is on those who claim that MacLean's mind became unbalanced to prove the cruel charge. And this they have signally failed to do.

'United the diverse elements in Scottish life'

James Maxton described MacLean as, "A Scot of the Scots, a synthesis of all that is healthiest and best in our stormy history; the honesty, the forthrightness, the perseverance, the deep humanity, the shrewd practically, the undiluted materialism". MacLean, as MacDiarmid has pointed out, united the diverse elements in Scottish life in a unique way - He was of Highland stock, his work lay in the great industrial belt in the lowlands and he married a Borders woman. The unification of Scotland, Highland and Lowland, rural and urban, was complete in himself. MacDiarmid has often claimed that MacLean was the greatest Scotsman of this century. Some of us might prefer to reserve that high honour for the bard himself, but there can be no doubt that MacLean was a towering figure in Scottish Working Class history. Many of the evils that he fought against are still with us and it behoves those of us who desire and believe in the brotherhood of man, equality of opportunity, a planned economy, the freedom of Scotland and the abolition and the threat of war, to try to ensure that one of the greatest champions of these ideals did not live and die for them in vain.

"MacLean had ever been the mortal enemy of bourgeois respectability and constitutional formality".
(Tom Bell)
This article originally appeared in Scottish Vanguard, Vol.1 No.1, 1967.

New article on John MacLean presented by SRSM

2011-09-18T18:45:00.001+01:00
An article written on the fiftieth anniversary of MacLean’s tragic death in 1923 is now available to read on the SRSM website.
It is hard to imagine the influence that John MacLean held over the ordinary workers and that 40,000 Scots followed the funeral cortege of John MacLean, to Eastwood Cemetery,
He quite rightly denounced the 1914 War of his day as an imperialist war which Lenin and Connolly were to do.

He also recognised the importance of the 1916 uprising in Ireland and understood the fundamental importance of independence to create a social independence or revolution.
It is inspiring that he made efforts to establish an Scottish Communist Party to lead the masses to a Scottish Workers Republic.. That national and social independence were not conflicting ideals to him but rather two parts of one basic democratic outcome. Early in 1923 he formed the Scottish Workers Republican Party.
At least the Irish experience and teachings of James Connolly were to feature in his mind and in his brand of Scottish Republicanism.
Many of the outcomes of the previous Centuries which featured, still stand true today. A significant desire for National independence among many Scots and consider the use of Scottish troops by London in pointless wars created and sustained by British imperialism. And the attacks by British communists on the pro-independence left.
What is revealing is the honesty and integrity of John MacLean who understood that we should support the Irish striking out for national independence while such men and women also having common cause for a Scottish Communist Republic.
In short he recognised that we are all gaels, that is the Scots and Irish, and as men and women of clans should stand in solidarity with each other.
At 44 John MacLean died young as a result of the barbaric system which incarcerated him. However his inspiration and writings live on in all of us and his significance for future generations will undoubtedly live on.
Larry
See below;

Hi All,
new article now available to be read at the SRSM website on the link below.This article was written by Peter Berresford Ellis in 1973 and has featured in a few publications over the years.

http://scottishrepublicansocialistmovement.org/SRSMArticlesJohnMacLeanInMemory.aspx

Enjoy reading

(Peter Berresford Ellis)

Fifty years ago 40,000 Scots followed the funeral cortege of the Scottish Marxist and Labour Leader, John MacLean, to Eastwood Cemetery, Glasgow. Today few Scots remember MacLean, yet he is acclaimed by Socialists of all groups. It is strange, therefore that there is notone volume of MacLean's essays or lectures currently in print, and that few people know just what this Scottish patriot and Marxist stood for. There is not even a biography of the man who was a close friend, of Larkin and Connolly, and who was regarded by Lenin and Trotsky as one of the most important Socialists that the nations of these islands, ever produced. The man who was honoured by the Soviet Russian Government as early as 1918. There is hardly another revolutionary whose work has been more thoroughly buried than that of MacLean, and whose character has been more successfully assassinated.
MacLean, a schoolteacher by profession, devoted himself to teaching working men Marxist economics; and his classes, which he began in 1906, laid the foundation for the Scottish Labour College. When the 1914 War began he denounced it as on imperialist war, as Lenin and Connolly were to do. His denunciation lost him his Job as a teacher. In September 1915 he launched his own newspaper, "Vanguard”, which ran to only five issues before it was suppressed. In October 1915 - MacLean was arrested and imprisoned for sedition under the Defence of the Realm Act (DORA). In February 1916 he was again arrested, and on April the 11th was sentenced to three years' penal servitude, large scale demonstrations led by prominent Socialists of the day led to his release fifteen months later. Connolly, in the very last issue of "The Workers' Republic," also demanded MacLean’s release. MacLean had become known to Irish Socialists through the columns of Connolly's newspapers, and had paid a number of visits to Ireland before 1916. He was “an old friend” of Connolly, who also had been born and brought up in Scotland and began his political life in the Scottish Socialist Movement.

Seamus Reader (1), organiser of the Scottish Brigade of the Irish Volunteers (afterwards the I.R.A.) carried reports to the Irish Military council in Dublin on Scottish conditions during 1916. Connolly, he recalls, was influenced by the state of affairs on "Red Clydeside," and Reader wrote in ‘The Irish in Scotland in 1916’: "Connolly said that Ireland could not wait until 1917 or 1918. John MacLean expected to be arrested in January or February, as he intended demonstrating against the war and conscription. The workers should strike, and those who had guns should use them." When the Easter Rising took place in Dublin, MacLean was still in jail. Along with Lenin, MacLean was one of the few Socialist leaders to hail the rising and to appreciate its importance.

Events were also happening in Russia. Lenin and Trotsky had already acclaimed MacLean, and at the first All Russia Congress of Workers' and Soldiers' Councils in Petrograd (Leningrad), MacLean and Karl Liebnecht were elected honorary presidents of the Soviet Presidium. On February the 1st 1918, on Lenin's instructions, MacLean was appointed Consul for Soviet Affairs covering Scotland and England and Wales. Despite harassment by the Special Branch, MacLean did much work to aid Russian political refugees. But the English Government had, at this time, militarily intervened to smash the young Russian Republic, and on May the 9th 1918, MacLean received a sentence of five years' penal servitude for sedition.

At the trial he mode a magnificent defence speech: "I am a Socialist and have been fighting and will fight for an absolute reconstruction of society for the benefit of all. I am proud of my conduct. I have squared my conscience with my intellect -I am not here, then, as the accused; I am here as the accuser of Capitalism dripping with blood from head to foot!" Again, there were mass demonstrations, and these led to his release on December the 3rd. He immediately stood in a parliamentary by-election, coming second to the official Labour Party candidate.

In May 1920 MacLean relaunched his newspaper, "Vanguard." He began to write numerous articles supporting the Irish struggle and urging Scotsmen, as fellow Gaels, not to be used as tools for murdering their brother Gaelsof Ireland. During this time he published a pamphlet ‘The Irish Tragedy -Scotland' s Disgrace’, which sold 200,000 copies. In this he called for a General Strike and for the withdrawal of English troops in Ireland. MacLean addressed meetings on the Irish question in Ireland, Scotland, and England. He continually urged working class support for the Irish struggle. Orange mobs broke up one meeting in Motherwell. In May 1921 MacLean was again arrested and imprisoned for sedition. He served three months. In September 1921 came yet another arrest, and a sentence of one year. During this time he forced the prison 'authorities to concede him the status of a political prisoner, something never accorded by England, which refuses political status to obviously Political prisoners.

Throughout this time he had been working for the establishment of a Scottish Communist Party aiming at the formation of a Scottish Workers' Republic. Through his association with Connolly and Larkin he had come to the conclusion that national independence was a prelude to social independence, that national and social independence were not conflicting ideals but two parts of one basic democratic ideal; and a few faithful comrades joined him in forming a Scottish Workers' Republican Party early in 1923. MacLean’s Scottish Republicanism had developed during the war years, and perhaps the greatest single influence on the national question was the Irish experience and the teachings of Connolly; but a fellow Scot also had a far-reaching effect on MacLean’s political thinking. This was Ruaraidh Erskine of Marr, a prominent leader of re Gaelic language revival in Scotland, who for years had advocated a Scottish Socialist Republic. Erskine had hailed the Easter Rising and the Russian Revolution; and had taken an anti-war stand.

Those who followed the "British" Communist- Party bitterly attacked MacLean’s Scottish Workers' Republic. They were particularly vicious because of the prestige and influence MacLean had with the workers. They promptly began a character assassination, saying that MacLean had become deranged. In anguish MacLean wrote a famous "Open Letter to Lenin" denouncing his attackers (‘The Socialist’, February 1921). MacLean’s articles and letters right to the time of his death are clear, concise, and theoretically well balanced. In "All Hail, the Scottish Workers' Republic!" (August 1920) MacLean wrote: "For some time past the feeling has been growing that Scotland should strike out for National Independence, as well as Ireland and other lands. This has recently been strengthened by the English Government's intention to rely mainly on Scottish troops to murder the Irish Race. Genuine Scotsmen recently asked themselves the question: 'are we Scots to be used as the bloody tools of the English against our brother Gael of Erin? ' And naturally the instinctive response was- No!"

MacLean went on: "Many Irishmen live in Scotland, and as they are Gaels like the Scots and are out for Irish independence, and as wage earners have been champion fighters for working- class rights. We expect them to ally themselves with us and help us to attain our Scottish Communist Republic, as long as they live in Scotland. Irishmen must remember that Communism prevailed among the Irish clans as among the Scottish clans, so that, in lining up with Scotsmen, they are but carrying, forward the traditions and instincts of the Gaelic race." MacLean began to prepare for an election pending on December the 30th 1923. He was standing as a candidate for his Scottish Workers' Republican Party, which was slowly building its strength; but on November the 30th, 1923, he died... His death at the age of forty-four from pneumonia was attributable to the severe hardships he had suffered during his years of imprisonment.

A number of publications appeared some time after his death. "John MacLean," by Guy Aldred, 1932; Willie Gallagher’s autobiography, "Revolution on the Clyde, " in 1936: "John MacLean" by Tom Bell', in 1944; Emmanuel Shinwell's "Conflict without Malice,"1955. He subscribed to the lie that MacLean had become" unhinged" because he advocated Scottish Independence (2). Only James Clunie, in "The Voice of Labour," printed several of MacLean’s letters written during the years in question, in order to prove that MacLean was in perfectly sound mind. Recently, Walter Kendall’s "The Revolutionary Movement It in Britain, 1900-21" has revealed the full extent of the attempt to discredit MacLean.

Nevertheless, there is still no anthology of MacLean’s works, nor a published biography (though several biographies have been written). It is possible, though, that a biography by MacLean' s daughter, Mrs. Nan Milton, will be issued soon. In recent years the John MacLean Society, of which Mrs. Milton is Secretary, has managed to republish a few of MacLean’s pamphlets (including "The Irish Tragedy -Scotland's Disgrace"). These have contrived to create a certain amount of interest in MacLean and his work.

This year, the fiftieth anniversary of MacLean’s tragic death in 1923," committees are forming to try to publicise more fully his writings. The committees will also seek to raise money for a publishing fund in order to reissue some of MacLean’s pamphlets. The year’s activities will culminate in the unveiling of a memorial to MacLean in Eastwood cemetery in November. It is not without significance that there has long been a memorial to MacLean on the wall of the Kremlin in Moscow.
(1) Seamus Reader (Seumas Mac Ridire): See Winter 1973 ‘Catalyst' p.17.
(2) Mannie Shinwell, a Glasgow Jew, was later to become, as Lord Shinwell, that caricature of a Socialist - a Labour Peer.

This article was first published in ‘Rosc Catha’. It was also translated into the Breton magazine ‘Sav Breizh’. Later published in ‘Catalyst’ Autumn 1973, and SWR in 1988.

Independence and the Referendum

2011-09-17T23:09:00.002+01:00
Questions and Answers on the Independence Referendum conducted by the BBC earlier this year

That means the SNP will hold a referendum on independence within the next few years - but what are the main issues and obstacles facing the party?

The SNP was returned to government in Scotland, after winning an outright majority in the Holyrood election.
Where are the origins of the independence movement in Scotland?
The campaign for Scottish home rule began in earnest almost as soon as the unification with England took place, in 1707.
At the time, the view was that Scotland was in desperate need of financial support, but opponents of the move were outraged by claims that the Scots who put their names to the Act of Union were bribed.
The best known critic at the time was Scotland's Bard, Robert Burns, who was spurred to write: "We are bought and sold for English gold. Such a parcel of rogues in a nation."
Fast forward many years to 1934, and the establishment of the Scottish National Party, created through the amalgamation of the Scottish Party and the National Party of Scotland.
After decades of ups-and downs, the party won its first election in 2007 and, again, in 2011.
How has the independence debate moved on in recent years?
Scottish devolution in 1999 presented a significant opportunity for the SNP, which, despite having a few MPs, was struggling to make the case for independence at Westminster.
The prime minister of the day, Tony Blair - who wrote the book on incumbency - was all too aware of this, and the Scottish Parliament's part first-past-the-post, part PR voting system was intended to prevent any one party gaining an overall majority.
This was the case initially - up until the 2011 election there had been two terms of a Labour/Lib Dem coalition and one of an SNP minority government.
The 2011 result has blown out of the water the claim once made by Labour veteran Lord Robertson that devolution would "kill nationalism stone dead" - ironically, Labour, the party which set up devolution - has never managed to gain the overall majority achieved by the SNP.
That result means the independence debate is now more relevant than it has ever been - a referendum will be held.
Does Scotland want independence?
Hard to say at the moment - while it's probably true to say support has grown, given the election result, a vote for the SNP does not necessarily mean a vote for independence.
One of the reasons voters turned so decisively to the SNP and its positive campaigning style was because they wanted an alternative to Labour and to punish the Liberal Democrats at the polls.
There are those who do not support independence, but recognised Alex Salmond was the best candidate for first minister - knowing they have the safety-cushion of voting "No" in the referendum.
In terms of political backing at Holyrood, the SNP supports independence, as do the Greens and independent MSP Margo MacDonald, a former nationalist politician.
Labour, the Tories and the Liberal Democrats are opposed.
When will the referendum be held?
At the moment, SNP leader Alex Salmond is only prepared to say the referendum would be held at some point in the second half of the new parliament's five-year term.
He says the most pressing issue is gaining more significant powers for the Scottish Parliament - especially financial powers - because that debate is currently going on at Westminster.
Opponents say that is an excuse for the SNP wanting to dictate the conditions for a "Yes" vote, while claiming the party played down the issue during the election campaign.
They want the referendum to be held now.
The SNP now has a majority - why does it not simply declare independence?
Even though the party won an overall majority, it takes the view that, on an issue of such significance, it would first need the backing of the Scottish people in a referendum.
It also needs this mandate to negotiate an independence settlement with the UK government.
How would a referendum work?
Firstly, MSPs would pass a Referendum Bill in the Scottish Parliament.
There would then be a for-and-against campaign, like the one we saw for the AV referendum, before Scots voters went to the polls.
Would voters simply be asked whether they want independence?
It's nowhere near as simple as that.
Because the Scottish Parliament does, in itself, not have the authority to declare Scotland an independent country, a "Yes" vote in the referendum would mark the start of talks with the UK government.
Of course, if the Scottish people speak up for independence, it makes it all but impossible for Westminster ministers to say: "No, you can't have it."
The SNP has previously indicated the question on the ballot paper would go something like: "The Scottish Parliament should negotiate a new settlement with the British government, based on the proposals set out in the white paper, so that Scotland becomes a sovereign and independent state."
The responses would be "Yes I agree" or "No I disagree".
In the last parliament, the SNP minority government tried to get enough support for a referendum with Lib Dem votes, offering the olive branch of a second question on the ballot paper on increased powers for the Scottish Parliament.
Ultimately, they didn't go for it. The SNP doesn't have to barter for votes any more, but Alex Salmond doesn't rule out a second question this time round, saying his party has no "monopoly on wisdom".
What happens in the event of a 'Yes' Vote?
Talks would begin with the UK government on a constitutional settlement, based on the SNP's declaration of a popular mandate from the Scottish people.
It's hard to say exactly how things would happen, given this would be new territory, but it's likely the timescale from a "Yes" vote to full independence would be lengthy, given the huge number of issues which would need resolved, including areas like defence.
What happens if there is a 'No' Vote? Would there be another referendum?
Alex Salmond has described the independence referendum as a once-in-a-generation event.
All the parties - unionist and pro-independence - are keen to avoid the situation which has unfolded in the Canadian province of Quebec, where debate over multiple independence referenda over the years has been dubbed the "neverendum".
At worst, a "No" result in the referendum could spell the end for the SNP as a mainstream political force.
It's also likely focus would shift back to the debate over more powers for Holyrood - with full fiscal autonomy, as opposed to relying on the Treasury block grant, probably becoming a more serious option.
What are the key obstacles to a referendum and independence?
As far as the referendum is concerned, none.
The SNP now has the votes at Holyrood to stage it, unlike in the last parliament when the SNP minority government was out-numbered by the votes of the pro-union parties, namely Labour, the Tories and the Lib Dems.
The UK government says it won't stand in the way of an independence referendum.
That's all very well, but the bottom line is this is happening - whether the coalition likes it or not.
In terms of independence, the UK government would essentially have to agree to it, but in the event of a "Yes" vote it would be almost unthinkable for Westminster to block it.
What about the alternative debate on more powers for the Scottish Parliament, short of independence?
Westminster is currently considering the Scotland Bill, which will deliver new financial powers worth £12bn, allowing Scotland to control a third of its budget under a new Scottish-set income tax and borrowing regime.
It came about as a result of the Calman Commission to review devolution 10 years on, backed by a vote of the pro-union parties at Holyrood.
The SNP was not keen to engage with the Scotland Bill debate, saying a "pocket money parliament" under Westminster control was not the way forward.
But the new SNP majority government is now concentrating on strengthening what is a live bill, before turning to the referendum, under a new piece of legislation.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-13326310
Well that is the facts on the Independence Referendum as it stands.
Many would agree that the SNP election landslide this year gives the Nationalists a mandate to properly govern Scotland.
However I did not agree with Tam Dalyell in August who said;

Independence now inevitable, says Tam Dalyell

Tam Dalyell was an ardent opponent of Scottish devolution - and he still is

Published Date: 16 August 2011
By TOM PETERKIN

SCOTTISH independence is inevitable after the SNP's landslide victory this year, according to the veteran Labour politician and campaigner Tam Dalyell.
The former MP, who posed the West Lothian Question, said the result of Alex Salmond's triumph would be a constitutional settlement that is "indistinguishable" from independence.

This is despite other Labour politicians believing they can save the Union by persuading people to vote against independence when Mr Salmond calls his referendum in the second half of the parliament.

I do not subscribe to his view that a constitutional settlement that is indistinguishable from independence will necessarily happen. That scenario could only happen with full independence.
Full independence to me means entire control of our defence, security and welfare and also completely and economically free from Britain. If the Scots hopefully vote a majority Yes to independence we still have to convince the Scots to vote in an referendum on the future of the monarchy in Scotland.
I therefore advocate that we should move speedily to a republic after independence. However we still need to win over the royalists to accept republicanism.
Then there is the currency in which we need to have our own and not be tied to the Bank of England.
A referendum on whether Scotland wants to remain in the European union is also likely to take place.
I favour a referendum in which like the Norwegians, we reject membership of Europe.
And I also reject the killing machine of NATO.
And it would be inconceivable for the Scottish to accept Trident nuclear weapons system post independence.
What I do support, is an Independent socialist Scotland that is a non-aligned republic.
Advantages of full independence would mean we could protect the Scottish NHS currently under threat of privatisation measures in England under the Con-Dem / Cameron regime.
Scotland is more than able to be self-sufficient which would see us prosper more with independence than countries such as Greece.
I would be expecting an oil fund to be set up so our people could benefit from the vast revenues presently flowing into the UK Treasury.
We could also fully control the exports and taxation of the Scottish whisky industry.
And we could benefit from tourism and an influx of ex-pat Scots returning to their homeland.
What we must support is full independence which will take longer if we accept the limitations of devolution. It would however be welcome, the idea of a Parliament with full fiscal powers and the raising of our own revenue to secure a Scottish budget that is not controlled by London.
The referendum is our lifetime opportunity to vote on freedom from London Rule and I look forward to a vigorous campaign being waged by the entire independence movement, political parties, writers, actors, artists and journalists who are pro-independence.
A free nation once again which would create a fresh start for Scotland and her people which would vastly increase the number of visitors to this peaceful and hospitable country.
Online I will follow the campaign to win a "Yes" vote for independence with great interest. Our destiny is in our own hands to be the first to break up the disunited kingdom.
Larry

New address for Scottish Republican Socialist News

2011-09-16T08:24:00.005+01:00
My sister website Scottish Republican Socialist News has a new website address
http://www.scottish-republican-socialist-news.com

However if you click on the old link you will be redirected to the website new address.

My aim is to update the site regularly about Scottish Republican Socialist and cultural events happening in Scotland.

And I am pleased to be linked to the Scottish Republican Socialist Movement (SRSM.)

Also we are living in interesting times historically for some Scottish constitutional change.

However my websites and blogs will continue to advocate support for Scottish independence leading to a Scottish Workers Republic.

Also this weblog welcomes Scottish legislation to bring about an Independence Referendum around 2014.

And finally if you wish to have your Scottish event publicised on Scottish Republican Socialist News then email me at redlarry1962@googlemail.com

Slainte
Larry

Winning the arguments for freedom

2011-09-12T11:04:00.009+01:00

This story below caught my attention this morning. It would be a welcome development in the history of Plaid Cymru for the party to be lead by a progressive socialist Assembly Member. Leanne Wood is intelligent and capable of such a task and would likely add a bit of charisma to the leadership of Plaid. Her excellent weblog can be read by clicking here

LEFT-WING AM Leanne Wood has been urged to stand for the Plaid Cymru leadership and take the party in a new direction.
Writing on Wrexham Plaid’s website, this year’s Assembly candidate for Alyn and Deeside Shane Brennan stated: “The impending leadership contest gives us the opportunity to remould our image and break out of our old strongholds and establish new ones.”
Mr Brennan said one of the major handicaps holding the party back was “the misconception of our party as being a rural, middle class, Welsh-speaking party”.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2011/09/10/wood-urged-to-bid-for-plaid-leadership-91466-29395496/#ixzz1Xj3uMnD1
Another story that caught my attention this morning is the unstoppable popular rise of the SNP in recent opinion polls since the landslide victory at the May elections this year.
Read below:
An opinion poll carried out by Angus Reid for todays Sunday Express newspaper confirms other recent polls in showing that the SNP is increasing its lead over the other parties.
When don't knows and won't says are excluded, headline figures give the SNP 49% of Scottish voting intention, Labour are trailing on 23%, followed by the Conservatives on 13%. The Lib Dems come in a poor fourth at 5%, confirming that the party is suffering the electoral effects of its coalition with the Conservative government in Westminster.
The poll is the third in the past ten days which puts SNP at 49%. By confirming the trend apparent in the earlier polls, this new poll shows that the swing to the SNP is no statistical blip, but represents a very real change in Scottish voting intentions.

The poll also showed that 36% of Scots agreed with the statement that Scotland would become an independent state within their lifetime. This is greater than the 32% who disagreed with the statement.

However when asked how they would vote in a single question referendum on independence, 47% said they would vote for Scotland to remain part of the UK, 36% would vote for Scotland to be independent. 13% said they did not know how they would vote.

47% said they would choose "devo-max", including full tax-raising powers, while remaining part of the UK if that option was put forward.
Souce: Newsnet Scotland
What these opinion polls tell us that the type and wording of the independence referendum is going to be all important. One theory is that the Scottish Government might present us with a two question referendum along the lines of increased powers for the Scottish Parliament and a option to vote Yes/No for independence from the UK as a second question.
What is fundamentally important is that increased powers or devolution max is going to have to be presented in clear terms, before Scots vote in the referendum.
As far as I am concerned when writing this weblog is that I am more supportive of a single question referendum about Yes/No to independence.
However it is also possible to see the sense in a two question referendum being brought forward from the SNP. If the Scottish people for example vote for devolution max and not for independence then this is going to mean substantial tax raising powers and a lot more, than is being offered by London presently ,in the Scotland Bill, which is now being debated in Westminster's House of Lords.
However If Scotland voted for devolution max over independence it would unfortunately delay the inevitable road to independence but would nevertheless keep us on that slow journey to freedom.
It does seem that the more governance Scotland would or will get then the more likely the Scottish people would be satisfied with more local decision making from Holyrood. After all the Labour support for devolution (when the Scottish Parliament was reconvened ) did not kill off the nationalist fox.
Well anyway, I am going to simply support a single option referendum for Yes/No to independence on this weblog. I definitely want Scotland being entirely independent and to be fully responsible for her own defence and security without entertaining that murder machine NATO or pointless wars and expensive nuclear capabilities.
For now the referendum is a wee bit away and enough time for all of us in the Independence Movement to put forward our arguments and wishes for freedom from Westminster rule.
Let us not be complacent but continue the journey of self-determination while the unionists are loosing the arguments for self-rule on a daily basis.
Slainte
Larry

Extend STV to cover southern Scotland

2011-09-10T05:10:00.007+01:00

I was born and brought up in Dumfries. I remember the 1970s when Dumfries and Galloway was not even served by BBC Scotland but by BBC North East (Northern England) and Border Television. When my family moved up to Fife in 1978 I was able to watch Scottish football for the first time on Grampian Television at that time. Now the regions in Scotland are served by Scottish Television (STV) but not yet Dumfries apparently.
I think for a cross border television channel i.e. Border Television to be covering news and politics biased to the North of England is unacceptable for Scottish viewers in the South of Scotland.
And Border Television have consistently refused to broadcast programes in Gaelic.
The only solution is for STV to be extended to cover Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders and that would recitify this unacceptable situation.
And the sooner Dumfries is covered by a Scottish ITV channel the better for all concerned.
Slainte
Larry
Below is the report in Newsnet Scotland
Local TV proposals criticised for ignoring southern Scotland

The many shortcomings of Scottish broadcasting were again highlighted yesterday when Westminster Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Conservative MP for South West Surrey, announced plans to develop local television. The Culture Secretary stated that 65 areas of the UK were in the running for new local television stations, nine of which are in Scotland.
However the plan was immediately criticised on a number of grounds, not least of which was that none of the Scottish areas which look set to get their own local television channels are in that part of the country where the need for Scottish broadcasting is most urgent and pressing. Much of the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway currently receive their ITV programming from the North of England, yet these areas are not covered by Mr Hunt's proposals for local broadcasting.
Complaints and criticisms about the lack of access people in the region have to Scottish broadcasting and Scottish television news have mounted since the old Border TV channel was merged with Tyne-Tees in 2009. The Scottish part of the broadcaster's audience now represents a small minority of its total audience, and the channel naturally concentrates on news and programming from and for Northern England.

During the campaigning for the election to the Scottish Parliament earlier this year, there were many complaints when ITV Tyne Tees & Borders decided not to broadcast a debate between party leaders hosted by STV. 5% of the Scottish electorate was denied access to the debate as a result. The refusal of ITV Tyne Tees & Borders to adequately represent the needs of its Scottish viewers has led many to call into question the viability of a cross Border channel based in Northern England.

Earlier this week UK broadcasting regulator Ofcom announced that it was studying proposals to "tidy up" the system of broadcasting licences for commercial stations. As part of these proposals it was considering the options of extending STV's licence to cover the south of Scotland, or reviving the old Borders TV channel.

The possibility of extending STV's coverage into the Borders was welcomed by local MSP Christine Grahame, the SNP representative for Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale. Speaking to local newspaper the Southern Reporter, Ms Grahame said that poor television coverage was a “long-running sore” among her constituents.

Ms Grahame added: "Viewers don’t get STV news and, instead, get news that is biased towards the north of England. In all the surveys that I have done with residents, this is the one issue that keeps coming up. People want to get STV."

Ms Grahame wrote to Mr Hunt on the issue last month. Yesterday she criticised the Culture Secretary's proposals for local television saying: "There is no worse place for local television in Scotland, we don’t even get STV, yet it is not even on the list."

However local Conservative MP David Mundell, Scotland's only Conservative MP, disagreed that local people wanted to see STV, telling the Southern Reporter: "I see no advantage for local viewers being part of STV. It would not generate a more local news service – indeed the local area would probably end up getting even less local coverage that it does under the present Tyne-Tees arrangement.

"I would like to see a return to the sort of Border TV service we knew previously, which had some of the highest viewing figures of any local television in the UK and which is much missed by local people.

"Along with my Scotland Office colleague Borders MP Michael Moore, I intend to meet with Ofcom to discuss their report and to make clear to them the continuing support which local people have for Border TV."
Television viewers in the Borders are being urged to tell Mr Hunt for themselves what they think of the service in the area now, and what channel they would prefer to see. Convenor of Scottish Borders Council, Mr Alasdair Hutton, who is also chairman of the South of Scotland Alliance’s local television group, has asked members of the public in the region to respond to a government consultation on broadcasting.

Concerned members of the public wishing to express their view on the future of broadcasting in the south of Scotland should send an email to local.tv@culture.gsi.gov.uk or write to the Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2-4 Cockspur Street, London, SW1Y 5DH. Submissions must be received by September 23.

Yahoo Groups to join for news and views

2011-09-09T11:00:00.006+01:00
Not much interesting me in the news today so I think I will post here and promote my Yahoo Groups.

Firstly Kirkcaldy and Fife Yahoo Group despite existing for just over a year uptake has been disappointing however I will keep it going in the hope that eventually new people or Fifers will join.

Description:

Group dedicated to discussion and information about Kirkcaldy and Fife. Welcome are residents, former residents and those interested in the culture and community around Kirkcaldy and the Fife region.

Secondly reds4justice by far the most successful of my Yahoo Groups with long standing members.

Description:

This group is an Independent Republican Socialist news and debate forum. We support a 32 County Irish Socialist Republic and Scottish Socialist Workers Republic. Support for national liberation struggles for small nations to include all Celts, Basques and Breton peoples to secure Independence.
Thirdly The Relaxation Cafe with eight members and regular posts to boost confidence and
self-esteem.

Description:
Mental health problems affect one in four of us at some time in our lives. I am a user of their services. But even those of us who do not suffer a mental illness need to avoid too much stress. Join this group with a cuppa coffee or tea and discuss how you have been doing or how your day has been.
This group can discuss stress and mental health issues in a safe environment.

Fourthly The Scottish Socialist Freedom Project with 19 members has been relatively successful with some long standing members.

Description:

News & Debate group on political and cultural issues affecting Scotland and Internationally.

"We believe in an independent Scotland where our vast wealth and abundant resources are harnessed and democratically owned for the benefit of all, not the obscene enrichment of the few."

Number Five is the Forum for Scottish Democracy which is reasonably successful with twelve members for those interested in Scottish culture and supporting independence.

Description:

Group for Scottish Republic news and debate. Scotland faces massive cuts in public spending on frontline services. This group recognises that coupled with the cuts is the democratic defecit that the ConDem government have not a mandate to rule in Scotland. The only solution to escape the cuts and UK financial mess is Scottish Independence.

And finally number six is the SNP Supporters Group despite existing for just over a year we still only have seven members however these members have stuck with the group.

Description:

News and Debate Forum for members and supporters of the Scottish National Party.

Scottish Republicans and socialists are welcome to join.

Here we can debate the merits of Independence and keep up to date with events.

Membership of the group is open only to those that support Independence and the SNP.

And so that is it click on the links to join as we are always pleased to have new members.

Unfortunately the Yahoo Groups from experience don't feature a great deal of debate but when properly run remain a valuable source of news and information.

That's it folks I will be back sometime in the next couple of days posting my news and views on this successful and busy weblog.

Take Care.
Larry

The ongoing march to independence

2011-09-08T19:18:00.007+01:00

In Scotland, we wait ages for an independence poll – then two come along at once! Literally, “at once”. Both polls were conducted at the same time.

TNS went with the question that was formulated by the SNP in the last Parliament:

“I agree that the Scottish Government should negotiate a settlement with the Government of the United Kingdom so that Scotland becomes an independent state.”

39% agreed; 38% disagreed, 23% weren’t sure.

Meanwhile, MORI had been listening to what the SNP have been saying, and reckoned a two question referendum was more likely.

Newsnet Scotland have run an article on;
The Velvet (or Tartan) divorce gets closer

In the article are two recent and reveling opinion polls on independence see below;

MORI asked: “The first question will ask whether you agree or disagree with a proposal to extend the powers of the Scottish Parliament to include more laws and duties and all tax-raising powers, while Scotland remains part of the UK.”

67% agreed; 24% disagreed, with a mere 5% unsure.

Then: “The second question will ask whether you agree or disagree with a proposal to extend the powers of the Scottish Parliament to enable Scotland to become an independent country, separate from the UK.”

(I doubt that the last few words would appear in a referendum question.)

35% agreed; 58% disagreed, with a mere 7% unsure.

All this, of course, simply confirms what we already know from previous polling. If offered the chance for fiscal autonomy, most Scots would opt for that, as opposed to either independence or the status quo.
Source: Newsnet Scotland

The MORI opinion poll is interesting in the first question with 67% agreeing to a proposal to extend the powers of the Scottish Parliament to "include more laws and duties and all tax-raising powers, while Scotland remains part of the UK.”

This would suggest my fears of a multi-option or two questions referendum that many Scots may play it safe in their minds that staying in the UK may have certain advantages if only the status quo is ended.

I do not agree. It is of paramount importance to back Yes in an Independence Referendum.

Why? Because we need to wrestle control over defence and homeland security away from London break from MI5 and send the troops home and ditch Trident in Scotland.

Another bonus of independence is having full control of welfare which Westminster has begun the process of dismantling the welfare state.

Then there is the opportunity under independence to nationalise the private companies and most importantly to set up an oil fund from the rich revenues presently flowing into the UK Treasury.

And significantly we can through independence protect frontline public services which the vast majority of the Scottish people support as proved at the ballot box with the SNP landslide in May. Efforts by the SNP Administration in Government had sought to defend public services and the Scottish NHS during their last term of office and into the future.

The only full escape from Westminster austerity measures is a clean break from the disunited kingdom.

And one encouraging fact laid out on the Newsnet Scotland article is that;

'In 1992, polling was less developed than it is now, but a poll at the time showed that in the now independent Slovakia, only 37% of Slovaks wanted independence from Czechoslovakia.'

Perhaps this is an encouraging fact but there is no room for complacently. We must be prepared to take on arguments which pander to unionism in the Scottish press and media particularly from BBC Scotland.

The campaign to secure an independence Yes vote will need to be stepped up a peg or two and we must see campaigning up and down the Scottish nation. A serious of public meetings would help from Scottish talented writers, artists supporting independence and politicians from different parties who support a Scottish break away.

Letters and comments should appear in all Scotland's newspapers and vibrant debates should be prepared for television and radio in Scotland.

However online material and weblogs are rich in pro-independence arguments from Bella Caledonia to Newsnet Scotland and excellent bloggers such as Joan McAlpine but not everyone in Scotland has a computer or goes online.

And also we must resist the temptation of Scots to vote simply for maximum powers for the Scottish Parliament (if offered a multi-option referendum) but rather educate the masses for the need to break completely from the disunited kingdom.

What is most encouraging is that in May the SNP support proved that negative campaigning from the unionists was rejected by most Scots. The electorate are more clever than many of us give them credit for.

Even without a date for the Independence Referendum have seen unionists in the Labour Party and media or press in Scotland resort to negativity or pandering to staunch unionism.

We must be more clever than the opposition in what will be an interesting and testing time for the Scottish Government burdened by Westminster cut backs to the Scottish budget or spending on vital frontline services. It is the duty of all of us to lay out the advantages of independence to Scottish growth in the capitalist economy and egalitarian social democracy measures alien to both Labour and Tory or Lib Dem London based parties.

It's not that this blog I write, will exclusively promote mere reformism or social democracy. I am a Republican Socialist and one who recognises that there is no parliamentary or constitutional road to socialism so I still support a Scottish Workers Republic. However there is a need to promote popular arguments for much more Scottish Democracy through Scottish Independence.

Only through independence can we begin the fight in earnest for a Scottish Republic and one sympathetic to a Scottish Workers Republic.

Well we do have our hands full but one step at a time as us Scottish Republican Socialists are prepared to give the Scottish National Party an opportunity to promote a relatively successful attempt at Government to prepare a new generation for independence.

This weblog will support the majority SNP Government in the challenging times ahead including the Independence Referendum planned in around three or four years time or whenever the SNP Government decides to present the Bill to Parliament in which is likely in mid term of it's sitting.

AS Scottish Republican Socialists we relish the interesting times ahead for Scotland's desire to change her constitution radically as we move closer to ultimate independence in her velvet revolution of sorts.

The Independence Referendum is the opportunity we all have waited patiently for and now know we will get probably 2014. And then we can break clean from the pain inflicted by the union and Westminster.

And to the faith in the Workers Republic we want Independence not to enslave the many and enrich the few but only a socialist transformation of society is acceptable.

But first we must learn to awaken as Scots and walk before we can run.

This is why we should defend initiatives taken by the SNP to improve Scottish society and lead us on the road to freedom.

I through this weblog will follow the progress to a more democratic Scottish state with interest.
Larry