Laborism isn’t working
The article discusses the decline of laborism and its impact on the Labour Party's connection to its traditional working-class base in England's coalfields. It highlights the significant electoral losses for Labour in areas like Barnsley and Durham, where Reform has gained control. The piece argues that the Labour Party's shift towards metropolitan values has alienated its core supporters, contributing to the erosion of community ties that once defined laborism.
- ▪Labourism, once a dominant political force in England's coalfields, is now considered dead.
- ▪In recent elections, Labour has seen significant losses in traditional strongholds like Barnsley and Durham, while Reform has gained ground.
- ▪The Labour Party's shift towards progressive values has distanced it from working-class voters, exacerbating its decline.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Laborism isn’t working The North needs more than nostalgia Colliery banners are carried during the 139th Durham Miners' Gala on July 12 2025. (Ian Forsyth/Getty) Colliery banners are carried during the 139th Durham Miners' Gala on July 12 2025. (Ian Forsyth/Getty) LabourismPoliticsRed WallReformismreindustrialisation David Skelton May 27 2026 - 12:03am 7 mins Two miners’ halls once dominated the politics of England’s coalfields. The first, Redhills in Durham, is one of the most beautiful buildings in a city blessed with many. Its domed roof and oak-paneled committee rooms are a monument to working-class pride and self-organization. The Miners’ Hall was once home to the Durham Miners Association and the so-called Pitmen’s Parliament.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at UnHerd.
