Scottish Labour has been the dominant political party in Scotland for over 40 years. This book considers the contemporary party, analysing it in the context of Scottish politics, Scotland, and the UK, as well as drawing international comparisons. A range of areas are covered: the chronology of events over the life of the party; the party's internal structures and culture, and its role in Scottish society; Labour's role as Scotland's leading party, its institutional role and its wider relationship with Scottish society; the role of the Labour movement. Key themes include the development of Scot ... More

Scottish Labour has been the dominant political party in Scotland for over 40 years. This book considers the contemporary party, analysing it in the context of Scottish politics, Scotland, and the UK, as well as drawing international comparisons. A range of areas are covered: the chronology of events over the life of the party; the party's internal structures and culture, and its role in Scottish society; Labour's role as Scotland's leading party, its institutional role and its wider relationship with Scottish society; the role of the Labour movement. Key themes include the development of Scottish Labour as Scottish politics has changed with devolution; its often difficult relationship with devolution; home rule and the rise of the SNP; and the impact of Scottish Labour's relationship with the UK Labour party. The book looks at not only the history of the Scottish Labour Party, but also the contemporary party; features a mix of contributors to ensure a variety of perspectives — from academics and journalists to political commentators and public policy experts; and places Scottish Labour within a national and international context.