- Title: ENGLAND: THE NEW SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC PARTY LAUNCHED
- Date: 26th March 1981
- Summary: Press conference held to launch party; Four principal members mount stage; Dr David Owen speaks about the state of the country and the need for a new political system; GV Conference and the press; Shirley Williams talk about how the present system is based too much on class differences; Mrs Williams leaving conference surrounded by police and press." Initials Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved
- Embargoed: 10th April 1981 13:00
- Keywords:
- Location: United Kingdom
- Country: United Kingdom
- Topics: Domestic Politics
- Reuters ID: LVAA8NADT9HLHX00OH3TQ7N9OQTM
- Story Text: LONDON, ENGLAND
A breakaway group of predominantly Labour Politicians today officially formed themselves into Britain's first new political party in half a century. To be known as the Social Democrats the new party has already attracted significant support, not only from Labour supporters who have become dissatisfied with an increasing trend towards the Left in the party, but also from one Conservatives who disagree with the politics of Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher.
The new party has been formed around four ex-Labour MPs:-Roy Jenkins, David Owen, William Rodgers and Shirley Williams. Recent polls show that the new party stands a good chance of winning the next election, and talks are underway at the moment between the Social Democrats and the Liberals with a view to the two joining forces.
<strong>Source: REUTERS 1" VIDEOTAPE</strong> - Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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