By defining itself as the party of work, Labour casts those unable to be economically productive – through disability or ill health – as burdens, not individuals with rights

It is a principle long observed in British politics that the Labour party, when uncertain of its convictions and in search of a popular identity, will reassure itself that the answer lies in a new slogan. That it has chosen to declare itself the “party of work” rather than the “party of workers” is not, on the face of it, a significant semantic shift. But in politics, words matter. And this subtle rebranding effort says a lot – perhaps more than Labour intended – about where the party now stands in relation to class, social justice and its historical roots.

Labour was never merely a party that supported people in work. It was a party of workers – an important distinction. It was not just about wage labour as an abstract good but about those who perform it, their dignity, security and place in society. To be a party of workers was to recognise the structures that exploit them and seek redress. It is a position tied to broader ideals of equality, family life and community identity.

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