Elect Martin Powell-Davies: 

Defending Teachers, Defending Education

Home

News

Programme for teachers

Lewisham Hustings

Alison Long, Lewisham NUT Assistant Secretary

The candidate count wasn’t high – neither Steve Sinnott nor Ian Murch attended - but the level of debate was good, with thoughtful questions about SATs, Professional Unity, the role of NUT Conference and the General Secretary’s "fat cat" salary - and revealing answers.

John Bangs cited Sinnott and Murch’s non-appearance at hustings meetings in London as demonstrating their "contempt" of London teachers. He dismissed Sinnott’s "romantic" vision of Professional Unity, but, even if it was in part to please the home crowd, his praise of the qualities Martin has brought to the campaign seemed sincere.

Martin’s contributions were fluent, passionate and convincing. He reaffirmed his belief that his campaign was appealing not only to many left-wing supporters but also to ordinary teachers who recognised the need for change.

This has been confirmed by reports from all over the country of previously unaligned teachers who have voted for Martin. He also stood by his decision to call for a second vote transfer to Ian Murch.

Martin explained that, while he appreciated that, apart from himself, it had been John that had also put in the effort to attend meetings across the country during the campaign, the Union needed a break from the past. John, as the candidate endorsed by Doug McAvoy, could not provide this.

It is obviously no surprise that Martin won the debate so convincingly on home ground – he has, after all, been winning in many arenas where he is relatively unknown. Nearing the end of a gruelling campaign, he is as full of energy, enthusiasm and good humour as ever. This, coupled with his astute and thoughtful responses, demonstrated again that he has all the qualities needed to make a great General Secretary.

Alison Long, Lewisham NUT Assistant Secretary.