Meeting held on Wednesday 16th April 2025.
Seven people were present. Four sent their apologies.
Trump’s tariff policies led to some discussion on their mode of operation and effect on the world economy. Since the tariff is paid by the importer it will usually be passed on to consumers. High US import tariffs may result in goods being diverted to other countries and the ‘dumping’ of commodities leading to economic instability. Protectionist policies seem to be contrary to the current globalisation in world trade and the neo-liberal economies of most Western nations both of which were felt to have resulted in greater inequality. However the volatile nature of Trump’s imposition and removal/reduction of tariffs on almost a daily basis makes it impossible for other nations to quickly work out a suitable response. It was noted that carbon border taxes between the EU and UK as part of net zero are an example of beneficial tariffs.
Although Trump and his associates seem to have a poor understanding of both economic reality and international diplomacy he is pushing ahead with his ‘anti-woke’ agenda. For example Harvard is resisting at present but other US educational institutions have caved in. Similarly many US law firms have done the same.
Keir Starmer’s performance as PM was thought to be still in need of time to bed in. The discussion touched on both domestic and international matters. The ruthless way in which the Labour Party has dealt some members such as local councillors and MPs who have been disciplined or blocked from standing in elections without a proper appeal process was considered worrying. It was felt that discussion of Gaza has been virtually shut down while Starmer has rightly stood firmly in support of Ukraine. The great reluctance to tax wealthy individuals and higher earners when several options are available while insisting on raising billions from the benefit system was felt be unbalanced. At present the government seems to be locked into Rachael Reeve’s fiscal policies even as the domestic and international is changing.
The threat of Reform at the local elections and beyond and the shoring up of the Labour vote seems to be a priority for the Party managers.
It was noted that on the wider Left a large conference of those outside the Labour Party including Independent MPs and councillors, Green Party members and other activists was held in London recently and resolved to spread constructive criticism of the government to the regions, including Sheffield.
The Supreme Court decision regarding the Equality Act was noted. It was hoped that the use of other existing legislation could be used to offer some protection to the rights of individuals.
Possibly a warning that other hard fought for rights could be in danger from right-wing populists.