Why I support Labour

Many policies Labour is proposing this year I like; some I am less enthusiastic about. 

Many Labour candidates are wonderful people. 

But I am more interested in the long-term direction, and the value of policies for the country as a whole. 

By my reading of history, and my understanding of the  pre-history, the world has always developed in a left-ward direction. 

So over the centuries warfare has become peace, competition has become co-operation, retribution has become restoration, selfish greed has become community effort, and isolation has become mutual help. 

Leaders and thinkers of all philosophies have taught us to look after the weakest members of our communities, to protect them from collateral damage caused by the actions of the powerful, and that what is basically good for the oppressed and poor incidentally helps the powerful and rich as well. 

In particular the teachings of Christ put these values clearly in front of us as ideals. 

It is the left wing of politics, the Socialists and Social Democrats and Labour, who espouse the political versions of these values.  

Right wing leaders tend to say, with Margaret Thatcher, "There is no such thing as community." 

They try to put a brake on the leftward progress, and turn back the clock to old ways. They certainly have in my lifetime generally. 

So I believe that supporting left wing principles is following the best thinkers, and especially the values of Christianity, and fitting in with the way the universe moves and develops. 

So that, briefly, is my strategy. My tactics are more pragmatic. 

I think that you get things done by being the government, not the opposition, or the junior partner. 

So it is obvious that to make my vote count for the greatest possible good, I support the largest left-wing party, and its local candidate. Have done since 1966. 

Simple really.  

Are your reasons for your choice as simple, and as clear?