LOCAL MP URGES RE-THINK ON ROCHDALE 7

A few days ago a chance encounter on a train led me to highlight the case of the Rochdale 7. They have now been expelled from the Labour Party after decades of foot-slogging and loyalty. One of the expelled is 78 years old and most have been in the Party for 30-odd years. Do they deserve this shabby treatment? Jim Dobbin MP, who I worked for as a press officer in the 1992 election, is said to be taking up their case. I ask this question. Why is the Labour Party treating ordinary members in this way? Why are they ensuring that support on the ground in places like Rochdale will be thin? Why are they shooting themselves in the foot? Why, even if they think these members have made a mistake , is the Witchfinder-General approach the only route? I am disgusted. And I will be writing to the NEC .I urge others to do the same.