Blair’s Election Success Welcomed by Christian Socialists

The ruling Labour party of the Great Britain headed by Tony Blair has won a third straight term in General Election 2005, according to partial election results on Friday early morning. With 533 of the 646 districts counted, the party has acquired 324, a parliamentary majority. The success has been warmly welcomed by the Christian socialists.

The Christian Socialist Movement (CSM) was formed in 1960 to support theological reflection and Christian service in politics. According to CSM, the social teaching of Christianity has led many people into politics. Christian socialism has made connections between the values of Christ - of justice, equality, compassion - and the values of socialism for 150 years. CSM promotes a values based socialism and faith based social action.

CSM is affiliated to the Labour Government led by Tony Blair, who is described by many as a right-wing and Christian-based politician. Prior to the election, CSM called on Christians to engage actively in the voting with a vision to raise the Christian impact over a wide range of social issues.

Andrew Bradstock, CSM Director stated in a statement, "Although there is an impression that Christians only want to know where candidates stand on ‘conscience issues’, such as abortion and euthanasia, the Christian agenda is very much wider...Church organisations are suggesting supporters ask candidates questions on issues including asylum and migration, the economy, education, the environment, international development, and poverty and social exclusion."

"These also happen to be issues on which Labour is delivering," Bradstock added.

In a statement released on 25th April, the CSM commented how Labour’s policy has related to the Christian teachings and practices. This is shown below:

1. Labour has a practical concern for the world’s poor
Labour has not just made pledges on international development - it is delivering and wants to do more. Labour has worked closely with faith groups and NGOs to tackle debt, promote fair trade and increase aid. This, along with climate change, will be the focus of our G8 leadership and European Presidency.

2. Labour is committed to an inclusive society based on equal worth and individual responsibility
Policies have focused on investing in education and health for all, rather than a few; Sure Start schemes have helped young mothers; there has been new legislation to tackle discrimination; action has been taken against crime.

3. Labour is demonstrating wise stewardship of our economy and public finances
Low unemployment has benefited millions, inflation and interest rates are at historic lows, and the public finances are managed prudently. Without this, government could not invest in education and health.

4. Labour is working to promote a sustainable environment for the next generation
A Labour government will lead on climate change in the G8 and European Presidency.

5. Labour has a good record of working with faith groups in communities
Labour sees religious groups as important partners in our society who often understand local communities better than most.

The BBC have predicted that Blair would have a majority of only 66 seats in the 646-seat parliament, down from the 161-seat majority given in 2001. Some political commentators said that the controversy over the Iraq war has affected the popularity of Blair.

Despite this, Tony Blair managed to succeed for a third term, and has stated his will to positively reflect the core belief of Britons in today's society.

Christian voters, in the run-up to the election were urging the politicians to put their fullest efforts into eradicating world poverty, reinforcing social justice and equality as well as giving recognition to the social contribution of faith groups. Many will no doubt be looking to how Blair tackles these issues now as the third term as Britain's premier begins.