THE general election campaigns so far have been a mix of lacklustre manifestos from the main political parties — all failing to address the causes of worsening conditions in housing, healthcare and job opportunities.

Along with the constant drive to international war, we have fascistic rhetoric from the far right that denies any legitimate criticism of capitalism and the ruling class — instead turning it on the most vulnerable in our society, refugees.

However, the election does give a platform to progressive forces within the trade union and workers’ movements to highlight the systemic crisis felt by the working class in Britain and the growing distrust of Establishment politics.