Parties and People, the Labour Party and the International Socialist Network

Abstract

This chapter describes the institutions and people involved in inter-party relations and the central role of the Labour Party in the international socialist movement. It analyses the history and structure of the International Department of the Labour Party, particularly the ascent of its International Secretary, Denis Healey. It assesses how the Labour Party acted as a model for reformist socialists, but also attracted Marxists. It deals with the ambiguity and tension between the Labour Party and the Labour Government, how it influenced British foreign policy and how the International Department was involved in managing dissent and disciplinary activities. It describes the similarities and divergences of the other European socialist parties with the Labour Party and how their preferences in international socialist cooperation reflected their strategies, internal development and culture.