Open letter responses: ‘We must link arms in struggle’

I welcome the response from Hannah Sell of the Socialist Party to the SWP’s open letter (» Socialist Party calls for a federal approach, 11 July).

It raises an important question about united activity.

Of course, we have and will continue to have differences of opinion on issues. If not then we would not be in different organisations.

It is crucial that these are aired and debated in a comradely fashion.

But when it comes to action we must act as one force.

I was a striking miner 25 years ago. I well remember heated debates on the picket lines between the SWP, Militant, Communist Party, Labour Party and people with no political affiliation about different aspects of the strike.

But when the scab buses or lorries came round the corner we all linked arms and blocked the road.

We immediately recognised our common enemy. So let us keep the debates and discussions going while we “link arms” and we smash the Nazis of the British National Party.

Robin Tennant, Glasgow

I think that a left electoral challenge would make those who blame “foreigners” for unemployment think twice.

It would also make it easier for those of us arguing against such ideas, and the ideas of the Nazi British National Party, to point to an alternative set of beliefs and policies that make sense, are simple and are a hell of a lot kinder.

Therefore I urge the Socialist Party to please put past mistakes – real or imagined – behind us and wipe the slate clean for the extremely urgent task that presents itself at this moment.

Please let’s unite.

Sophie Jongman, Kent