Friday, 14 March 2014

Tony Benn RIP

Photo via SocialistUnity.com
The sad news today that Tony Benn has passed away can not be allowed to mark the end of an era, the ideals he stood for are just as important today as when he started campaigning for them.

The Today program on Radio 4 this morning illustrated the point graphically, when most of the program was about Tony and his life and ideals, the BBC chose to give air space to an ex US ambassador propounding a new domino theory as an excuse to invade the Crimea.

I have been to many meetings to listen to Tony Benn, he was always inspirational and unlike many others he was also entertaining, remember how he won the encounter with "Ali Gee" hand down.
Many issues he brought to the Nations attention need once more to be brought to the forefront of Labour Politics, the legacy he deserves is for us to note what he said, and act in accordance with his ideals.

David Sheard - Leader Kirklees Labour Group.   

    
Tony Benn, one of the few authentic voices in the Labour Party has died. His legacy will remain for a very long time. RIP valiant Tony Benn!
Peter O'Neill - Cabinet Member

Tony Benn MP with his trademark pipe

I have been fortunate enough over the years to have met and discussed politics with many of the greatest politicians of the of the last 50 plus years,but one man stood head and shoulders above them all when it came to principles, political knowledge and his convictions,and that man was Tony Benn.

My favourite personal memory of him was when I attended a meeting of Republic where he spoke about why the monarchy should be abolished,he spoke in such a well measured and passionate way that I still as I did then believe that if the Queen had sat and listened to  the logic of his arguments she would have abdicated.



A truly great Parliamentarian and advocate for democracy I doubt we will see his like again.

Loved by many and loathed by others he never wavered in his beliefs of social justice,peace and the democratic process.

His commitment to do what he believed to be right, should be an example to all those involved in the political system to follow your beliefs and not to sell out for short term political gain.



Regards



Graham

Graham Turner