Key Moments
Jeremy Corbyn MP | Full Address and Q&A | Oxford Union
Oxford UnionKey Moments
Jeremy Corbyn argues that immense wealth gained by the richest during the pandemic starkly contrasts with the struggles of ordinary people, highlighting growing global inequality and the need for systemic change.
Key Insights
During the period since the 2008 crash, the 1,000 wealthiest people in Britain increased their wealth by £533 billion, while 33 million workers lost a total of £450 billion in income.
In the first six months of the pandemic, the world's richest gained £845 billion, with the 10 richest people now owning $1.1 trillion in assets.
Mental health stress among young people has grown 'ten times worse' during the coronavirus crisis due to issues like overcrowding and lack of access to resources for online learning.
Companies are practicing 'fire and rehire' tactics, leading to unemployment levels in some communities mirroring the height of Margaret Thatcher's reign in the early 1980s.
Jeremy Corbyn advocates for a 'national education service' offering free education from cradle to grave, citing the UK as the fifth-richest country.
Global refugee numbers have reached a record high of 80 million, a figure significantly larger than the entire population of the United Kingdom.
The widening chasm between the rich and the poor
Jeremy Corbyn begins by reflecting on his past debates at the Oxford Union, including one on Clause 4 and another on socialism with John Redwood. He then pivots to the urgent issue of how young people are being treated in contemporary society, particularly in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. He highlights the unique and difficult experience of a generation forced into online learning, often lacking adequate living spaces, computers, or open areas, leading to immense frustration and a significant rise in underachievement. The mental health stress among young people, already present, has been exacerbated, becoming 'ten times worse.' Corbyn notes that while the pandemic exposed societal weaknesses, it also revealed strengths, such as the rise of volunteer mutual aid groups. However, the overarching trend has been a massive growth in inequality, with furlough ending and wage cuts becoming more severe. Unemployment levels, particularly for young people, are now comparable to the early 1980s. The practice of 'fire and rehire' by companies, aimed solely at improving profitability, is a significant concern, though Corbyn notes some recent successes in fighting against it by workers at British Gas, British Airways, and Northwest buses. He contrasts this with the immense wealth accumulation by the richest: since the 2008 crash, the top 1,000 wealthiest individuals in Britain increased their wealth by £533 billion, while 33 million workers collectively lost £450 billion in income. Globally, the situation is even more dire, with the richest gaining £845 billion in the first six months of the pandemic. The ten richest people now possess $1.1 trillion in assets, a sum exceeding the total wealth of many nations. This stark disparity, Corbyn argues, demonstrates a profound and worsening inequality that will have lasting consequences for society.
The erosion of public services and a changing global landscape
Corbyn expresses concern over the ongoing privatization of public services, particularly within the National Health Service (NHS). He fears that the current trajectory, influenced by legislation like the 2012 Health and Social Care Act, could lead to an 'NHS in name only,' with private sector companies dominating service provision, potentially eroding accountability and the universal nature of healthcare. He links these concerns to the post-Brexit landscape and trade agreements, warning that they may facilitate further foreign corporate involvement in essential services. This is framed within a broader critique of the government's approach to national identity and patriotism, contrasting his view of patriotism—ensuring no one is homeless or starving—with what he perceives as a more flag-waving, nationalistic approach. He argues that true patriotism lies in supporting all citizens and advocating for environmental security and human rights globally.
Environmental crisis and the need for global cooperation
The discussion shifts to environmental security, with Corbyn commending David Attenborough's work in highlighting climate change and biodiversity loss. He points out that pollution, beyond CO2 emissions, damages the atmosphere for everyone, and the loss of biodiversity threatens future agricultural opportunities. The problem of plastic pollution in oceans, leading to its consumption through seafood, is presented as a direct consequence of inaction. At international climate conferences, such as the one in Paris, Corbyn observed a divergence in perspectives: Western nations acknowledging the need for change, while delegates from developing countries highlighted their role as primary sufferers of climate change, facing drought and water scarcity due to melting glaciers. He stresses that environmental issues require serious regulations and changes, not mere 'greenwash.' The 2019 manifesto's proposal for a 'green industrial revolution,' aimed at supporting industries in their transition to sustainability and developing local environmental roundtables, is presented as a crucial pathway forward. Environmentalism, he concludes, is not just a set of policies or an economic issue but a fundamental 'state of mind' regarding humanity's relationship with the planet.
Redefining security in a fractured world
Corbyn critiques the government's security strategy, which prioritizes a £24 billion increase in defense expenditure while cutting overseas aid. He argues that true security encompasses fundamental needs like housing, education, healthcare, and human rights, rather than merely focusing on military spending. He sees a dangerous trend towards a 'new Cold War' and an arms race, fueled by divisive language. This is juxtaposed with the stark realities of global inequality: 80 million refugees worldwide, the highest number in recorded history, facing perilous journeys and inhumane conditions. The treatment of refugees, exemplified by government threats and prosecution of traffickers, is seen as a violation of human rights. He advocates for a foreign policy that actively confronts human rights abuses by any government, referencing issues in Myanmar, China, and Somalia, and also calls for self-reflection on domestic human rights practices. The Black Lives Matter movement and the global re-examination of history, colonialism, and the legacy of the slave trade are presented as positive steps towards understanding systemic injustices.
Reflections on leadership and the Labour Party's future
Reflecting on his time as Leader of the Opposition, Corbyn describes it as frustrating yet rewarding, emphasizing his commitment to spending significant time traveling and engaging with people across the country, rather than being solely immersed in parliamentary day-to-day matters. He expresses pride in the policy development during his leadership and the substantial increase in Labour Party membership, which tripled from 200,000 to 600,000. His major regrets include not winning the 2017 election and failing to bridge the Brexit divide in 2019. He advises Keir Starmer to prioritize mobilizing people, encouraging democracy within the party, and maintaining a strong focus on the economic narrative of tackling inequality and promoting an investment-led economy. He critiques the current government's approach to public ownership, citing the example of 'GB Rail' as a diluted version of Labour's proposals for a public service.
Addressing antisemitism and promoting inclusivity
Corbyn firmly states that antisemitism is a 'total evil' within society and must be challenged in every form. He acknowledges that acts of antisemitism occurred within the Labour Party and initiated an inquiry led by Shami Chakrabarti, whose report he believes was largely supported by the EHRC. He emphasizes his lifelong commitment to opposing racism in all its manifestations, including Islamophobia and far-right racism, asserting that such division and denigration are fundamentally wrong and unacceptable. He expresses a desire to engage with the entire community, recognizing that racism, whether antisemitism, Islamophobia, or intolerance against groups like the Rohingya, is a persistent threat that picks off minorities. He views the personal attacks and criticisms he faced regarding antisemitism as unfair, given his consistent stance against racism throughout his life.
The role of institutions and the pursuit of equality
Addressing the role of institutions like the University of Oxford in a more equal society, Corbyn acknowledges its historical contributions to learning but also its inherent elitism and high costs, particularly for international students. He advocates for a fairer intake system, greater diversity, and an 'opening up' of institutions like Oxford and Cambridge. He proposes a 'national education service' offering free education 'cradle to grave,' arguing that the UK, as the fifth-richest country, can afford it. He also suggests that wealthy institutions like Oxford should examine their historical ties to wealth generated from the slave trade, drawing a parallel with Glasgow University's agreement to a reparations process. He champions the slogan 'for the many, not a few.'
The future of the left and empowering communities
Corbyn reflects on the future of the left in Britain, acknowledging the tendency within socialist movements to focus on disagreements rather than common ground. He hopes for a strengthened sense of community consciousness and campaigning, which he sees emerging around issues like COVID-19, 'fire and rehire,' environmental concerns, and the privatization of the NHS. He supports the idea of people staying within the Labour Party and emphasizes the need for better communication strategies, particularly given the limited ownership of mainstream media. His project, 'Project for Justice and Peace,' is examining media ownership and democracy. He calls for bursting open communication silos and fostering dialogue to build strength and opportunity, ultimately aiming to build a world 'fit for the next generation' characterized by peace, environmental protection, and economic equality and justice.
Mentioned in This Episode
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●People Referenced
Common Questions
Jeremy Corbyn has debated at the Oxford Union twice before. The first was about the future of the Labour Party concerning Clause 4, which was ultimately rejected by the Union. The second was a debate on socialism with John Redwood.
Topics
Mentioned in this video
A historical debating society where Jeremy Corbyn has spoken and debated multiple times, including debates on the future of the Labour Party and socialism.
Applauded for agreeing to a compensation or reparations process related to money made from the slave trade.
An organization within the Labour Party that Corbyn has friends in and engages with.
An organization affiliated with the Labour Party for over 100 years, which Corbyn states he has met with.
Asked Jeremy Corbyn a question about patriotism during the 2019 general election campaign.
The United Nations, which describes the current numbers of people living in food insecurity globally.
A college whose delegation attended a debate at the Oxford Union, enhancing the event.
A project founded by Corbyn after the election, holding global refugee speak-outs and examining media ownership and democracy.
The political party led by Jeremy Corbyn, which he aimed to transform into a community-based activist organization. He discusses its membership growth, policy development, and internal dynamics.
The Human Rights Commission, whose report eventually supported the findings of Chakrabarty's inquiry into antisemitism.
A representative body of British Jewry, which Corbyn states he has met with.
Praised for its learning and contribution, but criticized for elitism and high costs. Corbyn advocates for fairer intake, greater diversity, and a national education service.
Threatens refugees with the navy and prosecution of people traffickers, which Corbyn criticizes as failing human rights.
Former leader of the Labour Party, who sought to change the wording of Clause 4, and with whom Corbyn has disagreed on many issues, including the Iraq War. Blair also described Corbyn as a 'classic protest politician'.
A friend of Corbyn's who has written extensively about the history of Judaism and radical Jewish people involved in establishing the Labour Party.
Her reign in the early 1980s is used as a benchmark for current high levels of unemployment in Corbyn's community.
Mentioned as a friend who spoke about inequality in the USA and the passion for universal healthcare.
Participated in discussions and debates with Jeremy Corbyn at a fringe meeting during a climate conference in Paris.
A friend and colleague with whom Jeremy Corbyn spoke during a debate at the Oxford Union.
His killing in the United States and the subsequent growth of the Black Lives Matter movement are cited as events that have helped people understand issues of history and colonialism.
The current leader of the Labour Party, Corbyn offers advice on how to beat Boris Johnson, emphasizing mobilization and sticking to economic imperatives.
Debated Jeremy Corbyn on socialism at the Oxford Union, holding the view that US economic success was due to traffic-light intersections instead of roundabouts.
Spoke with Corbyn about the effects of the coronavirus in India, inequalities, and the farmers' dispute against globalization.
Mentioned as a minority group facing intolerance in Myanmar, highlighting global human rights abuses.
Current Prime Minister, whose government's handling of post-Brexit issues, including privatization of public services and approach to security, is criticized. He is also mentioned in relation to the 2019 general election and trade deals.
His work on nature programs and environmental sustainability is praised, highlighting the impact of emissions and biodiversity loss.
Referenced in relation to the future of the left in Britain, possibly suggesting a poetic or radical perspective.
Credited with effectively setting out an economic narrative for the Labour Party focused on an investment-led economy.
Mentioned as a company where workers fought back against 'fire and rehire' practices.
A global platform mentioned in the context of media ownership and the creation of communication silos.
Mentioned as a company where workers fought back against 'fire and rehire' practices.
Mentioned as a company where workers fought back against 'fire and rehire' practices and won their case.
A global platform mentioned in the context of media ownership and the creation of communication silos.
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