Preferable to Starmer he may be, but there is scant sign of a sharp political break in Burnham’s policies so far — while left challenges aren’t making much of a running either, finds ANDREW MURRAY. How can socialism be put back on the map?
THE Communist Party’s decision to call for a boycott of the EU “Parliament” election on May 23 has excited some controversy.
It was not considered lightly. Many of the party’s friends and allies on the left will respect it, some will disagree while others are not yet convinced.
On three occasions in the past, the CP has contested these elections, twice as part of broader No2EU coalitions with trade union, left-wing and immigrant workers’ organisations.
This by-election could plausibly see both Reform and Labour defeated — but splitting the left insurgent vote would put that at risk, argues CHRIS WILLIAMSON
Plaid Cymru’s spokesman on health and social services MABON AP GWYNFOR, in the second article of a two-part series, argues that Labour’s contempt for voters and backward-facing approach have led to widespread mistrust in Wales
Starmer sabotaged Labour with his second referendum campaign, mobilising a liberal backlash that sincerely felt progressive ideals were at stake — but the EU was then and is now an entity Britain should have nothing to do with, explains NICK WRIGHT



