The State We Need
Keys to the Renaissance of Britain
Published on 12. July 2013
Book
Hardback
304 pages
978-1-84954-588-4 (ISBN)
Description
Michael Meacher was a hugely respected voice in Parliament and beyond. The State We Need brilliantly distils decades of research and contemplation from one of Britain's truly original thinkers. This is the crux of politics in the West: how do we get out of a failed business model? How do we create a form of capitalism that benefits the mass of our people, not the few? In The State We Need, Meacher offers a consistent blueprint for the future. The striking ideology of what Meacher calls "national interest capitalism" set out in The State We Need provides a coherent and detailed vision around which progressive forces might group as the first step in the replacement of the failed neo-conservative market model. Its measures press at the limits of capitalism, but will certainly be regarded as falling short of socialism. The belief is that, while the market has its proper place, the fundamental principles underpinning society should be equity, social justice, equality of opportunity, and democratic accountability. It is a rallying call that evokes a universal response. It is a fundamental change of direction which once launched knows no bounds.
Reviews / Votes
'This is a powerful manifesto for a just nation... I urge you to read it and then agitate for the better world Michael Meacher envisages.' George Monbiot 'Michael Meacher's book sets our current economic crisis in its proper historical frame, and provides a clear plan of action for the future from education policy to financial reform. The State We Need is a must-read for all radicals.' Robert Skidelsky 'At a time of deepening economic and environmental crises, this book is a much-needed beacon of hope for a better future, written by one of the most committed and experienced politicians of our time.' Caroline Lucas MP 'Michael Meacher has observed the rise and fall of market capitalism over the past forty years and his book is important for two reasons. Firstly, it explains how things have gone disastrously wrong. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, he explains how they can be put right.' Larry Elliot, Guardian Economics Editor 'This is a welcome contribution to the debate about how to build a stronger, more equal Britain. As Michael's analysis makes clear, we need root-and-branch reform of the economic system. From tax justice to fair pay, financial regulation and green jobs, now is the time for radicalism.' Frances O'Grady, General Secretary of the TUC 'Meacher clearly explains how free-market fundamentalists through the ages have over-seen Britain's decline but remain incapable of sparking a revival... In every other aspect his vision of an open, empowering, participatory state makes this a manifesto well worth reading.' The People's Daily Morning Star, Luke James 'There is much to be said for Meacher's bleak diagnosis of a money-driven, spiritually desolate culture running on unsustainable principles and practices.' Michael White, The Guardian '[An] eminently readable new book.' William Keegan, The GuardianMore details
Other editions
Additional editions
E-Book
08/2013
Biteback Publishing
€16.00
Available for download
Person
Michael Meacher was the Labour Member of Parliament for Oldham West and Royton from 1997 until his death in 2015, having previously been the MP for Oldham West. He served as a junior minister under Harold Wilson and James Callaghan, and was Minister of State for the Environment and Privy Counsellor in Tony Blair's Labour government.