Two false statements and a conundrum.
[To the editor.]
Nottingham, May 21, 1912.
Sir,—Arising out of your reply to my question in the last issue, there is just one point I should be pleased if you will make clear.
In the article entitled “The Socialist and Trade Unionism” the writer clearly shows that the functions of the political and economic organisations are distinct and separate.
Now according to your Declaration of Principles the S.P.G.B. is a purely political party, since the aim is the expropriation of the capitalist class from political power in order to establish Socialism.
I should like to know how by merely taking economic action it constitutes it an economic organisation ?
L. Shearstone.
Reply:
The writer of the article you refer to tried to make clear that the functions of the present economic organisations—the trade unions—and the political organisation of the workers—the Socialist Party—are different. That he failed to make this clear is probably due to the fact that he developed what he calls his “style” by studying a burr-walnut piano case in foggy weather. But try and get the sentence with which we explain his intention well soaked in and fast dyed.
What you say about our Declaration of Principles seems to indicate that you have been studying it in foggy weather, so there’s a pair of you. The aim of the S.P.G.B. is its Object, and its Object is clearly stated above the principles. Do you mind reading it, Mr. Shearstone ? Thank you. Now if, as you seem to think, the character of an organisation is determined by its aim or object, have you still the “neck” to say that a party with such an essentially economic object is a “purely” political party ?
With regard to the question with which you close your communication, you must explain yourself more fully. Since we buried our tame thought-reader we have been rather at a loss in dealing with whydiddles.
Editorial Committee.
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