"By deciding to block Andy Burnham's candidacy for the Gorton and Denton byelection, the Labour NEC has turned its back on a different and better form of politics, one that Labour and the country so desperately need. The decision today has implications far beyond personality or faction: instead, it is about how a modern and effective government operates to meet the complex and interrelated challenges our society now faces."
"Francis Crick once said: A good scientist values criticism almost higher than friendship. This is equally relevant to politics. Any progressive party needs agility to navigate an endless onslaught of events beyond its control. What therefore matters most are systems and cultures that allow constant feedback, and different views and voices to be heard. Governing is always a mix of professional expertise, top-down control and open debate and negotiation."
The Labour NEC blocked Andy Burnham's candidacy for the Gorton and Denton byelection, rejecting a form of pluralistic politics that emphasizes place before party. The decision prioritizes conformity over open debate and constrains contestation that can improve policy. Effective modern government requires systems and cultures that encourage criticism, constant feedback, and diverse voices alongside professional expertise and top-down coordination. Healthy political contestation should be allowed, since difference of view can be a strength. Andy Burnham's Greater Manchester mayoralty provides a viable, small-scale model of pluralistic governance that brings broad local coalitions together while excluding the national populist right.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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