543 words, 3 minutes read time.
“The Communist” is an intriguing publication that offers a distinct and thought-provoking perspective on contemporary political and social issues. Issue 22, dated 26th February 2025, delves into a range of significant topics, each analysed through a lens that challenges mainstream narratives.
One of the central discussions revolves around Britain’s financial support for Ukraine. The newspaper raises critical questions about whether the substantial financial aid, amounting to £13 billion so far and a promised £3 billion annually, truly serves the interests of working people in the UK. It contrasts this with the rising cost of living, noting increases in essentials like water, energy, and council tax. This juxtaposition serves as a reminder of how foreign adventures can adversely impact domestic welfare.
The paper also delves into the rise of the Reform Party, exploring why segments of the working class might be drawn to it. Yet, it cautions against the division along racial lines, arguing that such fractures weaken the collective power needed to fight for better economic conditions. This aligns with its broader critique of how societal divisions can distract from economic struggles. It should be noted that thus far the ‘Left’ has had little success in refocusing many working class people in the UK away from a very deep hostility to woke or overcoming a very deep nationalist instinct. My own view is that one problem the ‘Left’ has had in connecting to working class people is their failure to listen to their concerns.
In addressing the concept of “woke,” “The Communist” advocates for rejecting cultural battles in favor of systemic change. It posits that the exploited and oppressed should focus on class struggle against the billionaires and bankers, rather than getting entangled in what it views as a “reactionary war on woke.”
A particularly compelling piece in this issue is the review of Mussolini: Son of the Century. The newspaper highlights how fascists historically rallied the middle class and landowners by exploiting their fears during times of economic crisis and revolutionary turmoil. The review notes Mussolini’s rhetoric, such as “Against the red beast, let us make a ram of all our lives,” to illustrate how fascism can gain momentum by manipulating public anxieties. The conclusion of the review warns not merely of the threat posed by ‘strong’ leaders but rather the fragility of “bourgeois democracy” and how the ruling class, when faced with a choice between socialism and fascism, might favour the latter to protect their own interests. I also reviewed this programme myself and found it deeply insightful. As cuts in services bite in the UK and costs rise we may see a further increase in support for non-mainstream or populist parties and movements. As of now it seems this will favour the ‘Right’ rather than the ‘Left’.
Unfortunately, “The Communist” is not easy to purchase. I obtained my copy at the excellent Housmans bookshop near King’s Cross, and it is also available by subscription (details can be found on the web at communist.red).
In sum, “The Communist” is a publication that challenges readers to think critically about societal structures and the power dynamics within them. It encourages a re-evaluation of priorities, urging a focus on class unity and systemic change over divisive cultural battles. I’ve only just scratched the surface of the articles in this issue, as it offers a wealth of thought-provoking content. Despite its title, the newspaper provides valuable insights that are relevant across the political spectrum, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in a deeper understanding of contemporary issues.
By Patrick Harrington
Pat Harrington reviewed Mussolini: Son Of The Century here
Anthony Green said
The RCPs lineage is as the latest incarnation of the Grantite faction of Militant, expelled by Peter Taaffe, whose supporters are now organised around The Socialist newspaper (though they have been much dimished by further splits, aspecially the Socialist Alternative faction which has perhaps eclipsed them in membership numbers, certainly internationally). As someone who was a member of Militant in the eighties, and who knew and respected Ted Grant, I was much surprised that these historically most catious of Trotskist tendencies, suddenly started openly identifying as communists, almost rivallinng the CPGB ML for communist cosplay. They have gained some mainstream media attention since this ‘open turn,’ but I suspect they’ll go the way of all such groups into further splits and irrelevance, especially once their octogenarian guru Alan Woods, once one of Grant’s closest collobaroaters, leaves the scene. As for their paper, I bought the first few copies on Palestine demos, the easiest way of getting hold of a copy, out of nostalgia and interest. But it’s no more exciting nor relevant than any of the others. Worker’s Hammer or it’s American big sister Spartacist is, however, worth an occasional look, as it’s more eclectic, not unlike the 1980’s RCP which eventually birthed Spiked.