Enthusiastic response to Socialist Alliance proposal

Issue 

BY PETER BOYLE

The Democratic Socialist Party's appeal for a socialist electoral alliance to stand common candidates in the next federal elections has met with an enthusiastic response from the activist left.

So far the International Socialist Organisation, the Freedom Socialist Party, Socialist Democracy, Workers Liberty and the Victorian Progressive Labour Party have indicated their interest in discussing the formation of a Socialist Alliance. Socialist Alternative and the Socialist Party (formerly Militant) are considering their response at meetings over the next few days. Other left parties invited, including the Communist Party of Australia and the Progressive Labour Party of NSW have yet to respond.

An initial meeting on February 1 between representatives of the two biggest socialist parties, the DSP and the ISO, revealed considerable agreement about the possible platform, structure and formation process of a Socialist Alliance. These two parties also recognised that because of their combined weight in the organised left, a cooperative and collaborative approach on their part was essential if an alliance was to be effective.

If the rough consensus reached at this meeting is ratified by the leaderships of these two groups, then a meeting of all interested left organisations will be called to discuss forming the alliance. If there is sufficient agreement in the left, large public meetings in the major cities soon could launch the Socialist Alliance. Contact the DSP at dsp@dsp.org.au or visit  http://www.dsp.org.au.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.