Co-operative Party UK
The electoral pact between the Labour Party and Co-operative Party has lasted for nearly a century. But what does it mean for the Co-operative Party to be the sister party of Labour in 2024?
Joe Fortune
General Secretary
19th July 2024
The partnership between the Labour Party and the Co-operative Party stretches back nearly a century. Just as trade unions established the Labour Party to give workers a political voice, the co-operative movement formed the Co-operative Party. Before their electoral pact, the Co-operative Party stood independent candidates and had its own elected representatives. This historic alliance has played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of the UK, blending the goals of the labour movement with the ideals of co-operation.
In simple terms, the Co-operative Party is an independently registered and regulated political party with its own democratic structures and governance. The electoral pact allows for independent membership as well as joint membership of both parties. They have separate selection processes which, when aligned, result in a joint Labour & Co-operative candidate. This unique arrangement has allowed both parties to support candidates who are committed to social justice, economic fairness, and community empowerment.
But what does this relationship mean today, in 2024, after a historic Labour Party victory in the general election? While history provides context, there isn’t a playbook for what the Co-operative Party could achieve in this new political landscape. The recent electoral success presents unprecedented opportunities for the Co-operative Party to influence national policy and advocate for the values it holds dear.
Being in partnership with a much larger organisation like Labour can be challenging, especially when sharing candidates and elected representatives. However, the Co-operative Party is uniquely positioned to deliver on its founding mission from over 100 years ago. The principles of co-operation—mutual aid, democratic governance, and community focus—are more relevant than ever in addressing contemporary issues such as economic inequality, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion.
In a political system that favours a two-party structure, explaining the relationship between Labour and the Co-operative Party can be complex. Despite potential challenges, I feel confident within this relationship. The Co-operative Party has grown in numbers and confidence, at one point being the fastest-growing political party in the UK. This growth reflects a growing public recognition of the importance of co-operative principles in creating a fairer and more resilient society.
Not long ago, joint elected representatives were few and far between. Now, nearly 1 in 4 Labour representatives are also Co-operative. This includes the majority of Welsh MSs, including the First Minister, a majority of Scottish MSPs, including the Scottish Labour Leader, most metro mayors, Police and Crime Commissioners, and over 1600 councillors. We’ve just seen the largest number of Labour and Co-operative MPs elected to Westminster, many of whom will serve as Ministers and Cabinet Ministers. This significant presence in government positions the Co-operative Party to effectively advocate for its policy goals and collaborate closely with Labour on key initiatives.
Ahead of the General Election, the Labour Party published a manifesto with strong commitments to the co-operative movement. The Co-operative Party worked with Labour to focus on four key areas: increasing the number of co-ops, leveraging co-operatives in the fight against climate change, saving community assets and high streets, and improving retail worker safety. Each of these priorities has been included and adopted in the manifesto, showcasing the influence and integration of co-operative principles within Labour’s broader policy framework.
Looking ahead, the Co-operative Party aims to double the size of the co-operative and mutual sector, produce 8GW of community-owned renewable energy, establish new community ownership on high streets through a new community right to buy, and more. These ambitious goals highlight the potential of co-operatives to drive economic and social progress. By expanding the co-operative sector, we can create more inclusive and sustainable local economies, empower communities to take control of their resources, and foster a stronger sense of solidarity and mutual support.
Moreover, the Co-operative Party’s commitment to tackling climate change through community-owned renewable energy projects exemplifies how co-operative principles can address global challenges. By decentralising energy production and promoting local ownership, these initiatives can reduce carbon emissions, lower energy costs, and enhance energy security. This approach not only aligns with environmental goals but also strengthens community resilience and economic independence.
As Labour’s sister Party, we must maintain our ambition and commitment to promoting and defending the co-operative movement in all its forms. The future holds significant potential, and we are ready to seize it. The Co-operative Party’s vision is not just about expanding numbers but also about embedding co-operative values deeper into the fabric of society. We aim to create a future where co-operatives are a mainstream part of the economy, where communities are empowered to shape their destinies, and where the principles of democracy, equality, and mutual aid are at the heart of all we do.
In conclusion, the Co-operative Party’s role in the new Labour government is a testament to its enduring relevance and potential. By working together, Labour and the Co-operative Party can create a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all. The journey ahead is filled with challenges and opportunities, and we are committed to making the most of this historic moment to advance the co-operative cause.
19th July 2024
The partnership between the Labour Party and the Co-operative Party stretches back nearly a century. Just as trade unions established the Labour Party to give workers a political voice, the co-operative movement formed the Co-operative Party. Before their electoral pact, the Co-operative Party stood independent candidates and had its own elected representatives. This historic alliance has played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of the UK, blending the goals of the labour movement with the ideals of co-operation.
In simple terms, the Co-operative Party is an independently registered and regulated political party with its own democratic structures and governance. The electoral pact allows for independent membership as well as joint membership of both parties. They have separate selection processes which, when aligned, result in a joint Labour & Co-operative candidate. This unique arrangement has allowed both parties to support candidates who are committed to social justice, economic fairness, and community empowerment.
But what does this relationship mean today, in 2024, after a historic Labour Party victory in the general election? While history provides context, there isn’t a playbook for what the Co-operative Party could achieve in this new political landscape. The recent electoral success presents unprecedented opportunities for the Co-operative Party to influence national policy and advocate for the values it holds dear.
Being in partnership with a much larger organisation like Labour can be challenging, especially when sharing candidates and elected representatives. However, the Co-operative Party is uniquely positioned to deliver on its founding mission from over 100 years ago. The principles of co-operation—mutual aid, democratic governance, and community focus—are more relevant than ever in addressing contemporary issues such as economic inequality, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion.
In a political system that favours a two-party structure, explaining the relationship between Labour and the Co-operative Party can be complex. Despite potential challenges, I feel confident within this relationship. The Co-operative Party has grown in numbers and confidence, at one point being the fastest-growing political party in the UK. This growth reflects a growing public recognition of the importance of co-operative principles in creating a fairer and more resilient society.
Not long ago, joint elected representatives were few and far between. Now, nearly 1 in 4 Labour representatives are also Co-operative. This includes the majority of Welsh MSs, including the First Minister, a majority of Scottish MSPs, including the Scottish Labour Leader, most metro mayors, Police and Crime Commissioners, and over 1600 councillors. We’ve just seen the largest number of Labour and Co-operative MPs elected to Westminster, many of whom will serve as Ministers and Cabinet Ministers. This significant presence in government positions the Co-operative Party to effectively advocate for its policy goals and collaborate closely with Labour on key initiatives.
Ahead of the General Election, the Labour Party published a manifesto with strong commitments to the co-operative movement. The Co-operative Party worked with Labour to focus on four key areas: increasing the number of co-ops, leveraging co-operatives in the fight against climate change, saving community assets and high streets, and improving retail worker safety. Each of these priorities has been included and adopted in the manifesto, showcasing the influence and integration of co-operative principles within Labour’s broader policy framework.
Looking ahead, the Co-operative Party aims to double the size of the co-operative and mutual sector, produce 8GW of community-owned renewable energy, establish new community ownership on high streets through a new community right to buy, and more. These ambitious goals highlight the potential of co-operatives to drive economic and social progress. By expanding the co-operative sector, we can create more inclusive and sustainable local economies, empower communities to take control of their resources, and foster a stronger sense of solidarity and mutual support.
Moreover, the Co-operative Party’s commitment to tackling climate change through community-owned renewable energy projects exemplifies how co-operative principles can address global challenges. By decentralising energy production and promoting local ownership, these initiatives can reduce carbon emissions, lower energy costs, and enhance energy security. This approach not only aligns with environmental goals but also strengthens community resilience and economic independence.
As Labour’s sister Party, we must maintain our ambition and commitment to promoting and defending the co-operative movement in all its forms. The future holds significant potential, and we are ready to seize it. The Co-operative Party’s vision is not just about expanding numbers but also about embedding co-operative values deeper into the fabric of society. We aim to create a future where co-operatives are a mainstream part of the economy, where communities are empowered to shape their destinies, and where the principles of democracy, equality, and mutual aid are at the heart of all we do.
In conclusion, the Co-operative Party’s role in the new Labour government is a testament to its enduring relevance and potential. By working together, Labour and the Co-operative Party can create a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all. The journey ahead is filled with challenges and opportunities, and we are committed to making the most of this historic moment to advance the co-operative cause.
A Co-operative Renaissance?
With a newly elected Labour government is now the time for a co-operative renaissance? General Secretary Joe Fortune explains why this could be a once in a generation chance.
Joe Fortune
With a newly elected Labour government is now the time for a co-operative renaissance? General Secretary Joe Fortune explains why this could be a once in a generation chance.
Joe Fortune
General Secretary
19th July 2024
19th July 2024
Photo by Thomas Reaubourg on Unsplash
A Co-operative Renaissance?
I’ve dedicated the last 15 years to the co-operative cause. When people first encounter the UK co-operative movement, they often embark on a journey to understand its essence. Many are familiar with co-op shops, but there’s a broader world of co-operatives to discover. This journey reveals the different types of co-ops, their structures, benefits, global impact, and rich history.
This history is both rich and fascinating. From a single shop formed by 28 people in Rochdale, the movement has grown to encompass one billion people worldwide. It is one of the most successful social movements in recent history. As people delve into co-operative history, they uncover the social fabric woven by the movement. Whether it’s reminiscing about the family divvy number, finding local housing co-ops, social clubs, or co-op dimensions in fairtrade and peace movements, the co-operative impact is everywhere. Farms, worker co-operatives, community-owned cafes, energy schemes, building societies, and credit unions are all integral to our daily lives and owe their existence to the co-operative movement.
Despite this profound influence, co-operatives have not received the support they deserve. The UK, which exported modern co-operation globally, often fails to recognise its significance at home. Co-ops contribute £40bn to GDP, and this figure rises significantly when including mutuals. Yet, misconceptions persist. Some believe co-ops are only suited for small ventures, not large businesses. This is far from the truth. In Germany, a significant portion of banking is done through co-ops. Most milk in India is produced by co-ops, and 40% of US agriculture is co-operative.
Co-operatives are more productive, resilient, invest more in their communities, and create more equal outcomes. Why then, should we see them as a relic of the past? We should be creating more co-operatives, not fewer. We face a multitude of problems in our country right now, all these issues can’t be fixed from Westminster. What we need a co-operative renaissance that puts decision making at the heart of local communities.
We should be a country that supports and nurtures new co-operative enterprises. Currently, we are not. However, I envision a future where this is the case. The Co-operative Party, which I am proud to serve as General Secretary, is ambitious about co-operative growth. We aim to double the size of the sector and the number of co-operatives and mutuals. We also believe that the co-operative model can help address climate change and other huge issues that seem insurmountable right now. Community-owned renewable energy can boost our renewable mix, reduce bills, increase energy independence, and create thousands of new energy owners.
These ideas are now part of the Labour Party’s manifesto and plan for their future government. Measures like this and a new community right to buy means we may soon have a government committed to a co-operative and mutual renaissance. The co-operative sector will indeed be the building blocks of Labour’s transformative plan for government.
We should aim to have a co-operative sector comparable to our European neighbours and re-establish co-operation in our social psyche and fabric. To thrive as a nation and address current civic challenges, we must reignite the beautiful, unique, and often overlooked strength of co-operation
A Co-operative Renaissance?
I’ve dedicated the last 15 years to the co-operative cause. When people first encounter the UK co-operative movement, they often embark on a journey to understand its essence. Many are familiar with co-op shops, but there’s a broader world of co-operatives to discover. This journey reveals the different types of co-ops, their structures, benefits, global impact, and rich history.
This history is both rich and fascinating. From a single shop formed by 28 people in Rochdale, the movement has grown to encompass one billion people worldwide. It is one of the most successful social movements in recent history. As people delve into co-operative history, they uncover the social fabric woven by the movement. Whether it’s reminiscing about the family divvy number, finding local housing co-ops, social clubs, or co-op dimensions in fairtrade and peace movements, the co-operative impact is everywhere. Farms, worker co-operatives, community-owned cafes, energy schemes, building societies, and credit unions are all integral to our daily lives and owe their existence to the co-operative movement.
Despite this profound influence, co-operatives have not received the support they deserve. The UK, which exported modern co-operation globally, often fails to recognise its significance at home. Co-ops contribute £40bn to GDP, and this figure rises significantly when including mutuals. Yet, misconceptions persist. Some believe co-ops are only suited for small ventures, not large businesses. This is far from the truth. In Germany, a significant portion of banking is done through co-ops. Most milk in India is produced by co-ops, and 40% of US agriculture is co-operative.
Co-operatives are more productive, resilient, invest more in their communities, and create more equal outcomes. Why then, should we see them as a relic of the past? We should be creating more co-operatives, not fewer. We face a multitude of problems in our country right now, all these issues can’t be fixed from Westminster. What we need a co-operative renaissance that puts decision making at the heart of local communities.
We should be a country that supports and nurtures new co-operative enterprises. Currently, we are not. However, I envision a future where this is the case. The Co-operative Party, which I am proud to serve as General Secretary, is ambitious about co-operative growth. We aim to double the size of the sector and the number of co-operatives and mutuals. We also believe that the co-operative model can help address climate change and other huge issues that seem insurmountable right now. Community-owned renewable energy can boost our renewable mix, reduce bills, increase energy independence, and create thousands of new energy owners.
These ideas are now part of the Labour Party’s manifesto and plan for their future government. Measures like this and a new community right to buy means we may soon have a government committed to a co-operative and mutual renaissance. The co-operative sector will indeed be the building blocks of Labour’s transformative plan for government.
We should aim to have a co-operative sector comparable to our European neighbours and re-establish co-operation in our social psyche and fabric. To thrive as a nation and address current civic challenges, we must reignite the beautiful, unique, and often overlooked strength of co-operation
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