No Platform

There is a good article on Wales Home by Patrick McGuinness about the trouble with No Platform policies. A few years ago at my University Union one of the major and most controversial topics discussed at the AGM was whether to adopt a No Platform policy. I have always been against the No Platform stance because it really goes against my political instincts. I found that those who opposed the motion at the time where from non-political, conservative, liberal or Christian backgrounds. Those who supported the motion were those on the left (Labour or Respect) and members of the Jewish and LGBT societies. I totally understand why those who would suffer or be made victims by a fascist or racist person or political party would support no platform and I have every respect for their position. They have every right to protect their friends and their community. But it has long been my view that a vacuum of debate will eventually be filled by something unpleasant. The real problem especially for the Labour party is the view that has been expressed by figures like Hazel Blears. Allthough parties and organisations like the BNP and the English Defence League are fundamentally harmful to society, those who are drawn to support them do not necessarily support their values but are looking for a receptacle in which to express legitimate concerns surrounding issues like immigration and community cohesion all the while are being fuelled by the pace at which society is changing. Can I be bold as suggest who is responsible for the rise is these kinds of groups. I blame the Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democratic parties, the SNP and Plaid, Government, Councils and pretty much any other kind of organisation involved in politics. The political classes have failed to listen and address the concerns of those who really needed to be part of the political process. My primary school’s motto was “bach yw hedyn pob mawredd”, which translates as little is the seed of greatness. Even the most minor concerns or misunderstandings, if not addressed properly can be allowed to fester into something bigger and probably a vote for the BNP. Maybe when we sit down in just under a fortnights time to watch the BNPQT as it’s being dubbed, maybe we can start to have an open and mature debate about these difficult and sensitive issues.