An end to the arbitrary multiplication of topics; information adequately in advance; details given when motions ruled out of order

We note that at the last two Labour Party conferences:

• Obvious subject areas have been divided into “topics” grouping pro-leadership motions and others grouping more critical ones. In 2023, the CAC excluded calls to renationalise the NHS by dividing “health” into two topics, while allowing calls for private funding to be debated. In 2024, “health” was divided into four topics, and “local government” into two.

Also in 2024, a separate topic was created on Border Security Command, while a motion calling for dignity and a welcome for refugees and migrants was excluded as “on more than one topic”.

In 2024 116 motions accepted onto the agenda were divided into 40 topics, many with very few motions. A more rational grouping would have more motions per topic and allow more debate.

• We also note that one of the delegates from the SHA, the proposers of the excluded NHS motion in 2023 had their credentials in the middle of conference with no due process, and delegates from the SEA and a CLP suffered similarly in 2024.

We note the unnecessary physical roughness of the removal of the protestor who interrupted Rachel Reeves’s speech.

The interpretation of Rule C1.VII.1.C.ii which says the GS can assume delegated powers from the NEC and pass them on. means that delegates are being removed, allegedly under the powers of the General Secretary or Head of Legal, with no due process. This is in conflict with human rights law and natural justice.

We call for:

• An end to the arbitrary multiplication of topics

• The CAC and NEC to publish motions accepted onto the agenda, and business coming to conference from the NEC, at least a week before conference

• The CAC to augment its list of motions ruled out of order to include the text of the motions and the reasons for ruling them out of order

• The CAC to publish an official record of decisions from day 4 (the Wednesday) of Labour Party conference 2024 as it published the decisions of the three previous days

• Delegates not to be expelled from conference except on written charges and after due process

• The seven MPs suspended from the Labour Whip for their vote on the two-child benefit cap to be reinstated.

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Note: this text, it stands, is long for a motion. A comrade is working on a shorter version, but in the meantime, adapt and abbreviate as you wish?