Sunday, November 04, 2007

We Love the NHS March & Rally

This was a carnival as much as a trade union or political march. As well as thousands of NHS workers and supporters, there were stilt-walkers in fancy dress, steel drums, a brass band and Soca dancers in the front. The march was in celebration of the NHS (approaching its 60th birthday next year) and a reminder to the government about keeping the NHS public and free at the point of use.

For part of the march I was helping to carry the UNISON banner of St Georges Hospital branch (Wandsworth) who had a photo of the founder of the NHS Nye Bevan on it. Behind us were some very deafening drums, which did wonders for my hangover following last night’s leaving “do”. The excited supporters beside me blowing whistles all the time just added to the experience.

There was a rally at Trafalgar Square. Dave Prentis and other trade union leaders spoke. I didn’t stay for the music and other attractions. I had to go and help some Labour Party comrades set up a new blog!

Just before the march I met up for the first time with Mikael Duthu, who I have crossed swords with figuratively in blogosphere. He seemed a very nice chap (Swedish). It is strange to meet up with someone in person you have only “met” on the Internet (like meeting grimmerupnorth at Labour conference). I asked if I could take his picture. For some reason he was a little nervous that I would post it with some silly caption next to it (as if). I assured him that I would not. After all what could I say that could top someone proudly having their picture taken holding copies of Socialist Appeal!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the links!

Anonymous said...

Well we did wave and try to catch your eye as we clustered around the Barnet and K&C Unison banners but you were intent on finding others! Hope you will be able to make the Barnet Fremantle demo!kat

John Gray said...

Hi Mikael

hope you got the pics!

John Gray said...

Hi Kat

Sorry I didn't see you and say hello! I had agreed to meet Gloria and Kim. Ending up next to Andrew B!

Yes, fingers crossed, I will make it on Saturday for Freemantle demo. There is a slight problem. Believe it or not Trotsky and I have something in Common!