Socialists for Independence has been committed to working with others across the left to develop unity in action. As part of that we have set up the Platform for Socialism and Independence with other groups in order to work together in the evolving political situation around the possible creation of a new party of the left. Our joint statement is set out below.
We as pro-independence organisations see a space for a new left party in Scotland.
The Platform for Socialism & Independence (PSI) is seeking to create a credible vehicle for pro-independence socialists who have no political home.
We firmly believe that it is only through left wing ideas that Scotland can be transformed into a country that serves the interests of its people.
The sudden appearance of the Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana new left project (Your Party) and its 40,000+ sign-ups in Scotland represents the largest mass engagement in left politics in years. However, as pro-independence socialists, we assert that any new left party in Scotland should be led by the movements, activists and communities in Scotland.
We publicly appeal to Your Party to empower Scottish activists at the grassroots by creating an independent Scottish party, affiliated to the project taking shape in England. We believe that the relationship between the Scottish and English Green parties is a prime example of how this can be achieved – a relationship that is collaborative and supportive, but respects the right of a Scottish party to determine its own path. We welcome Zarah Sultana’s comments in the National recently expressing support for Scottish autonomy in this process.
We invite anyone who shares our perspective to sign up to our new joint platform. Together, we will respond to developments in the Your Party project and continue to advocate for an independent Scottish left party that stands for socialism and independence.
Sign up to our mailing list at www.psi.scot to hear about our next meeting and learn how you can get involved.