The language of priorities: Aneurin Bevan, Welsh labour and the politics of the past

Abstract

The past is integral to Labour Party politics, serving as a constant reference point in articulating a politics for the present and in responding to defeats. In Wales, however, 100 years of electoral dominance means that Welsh Labour has not had to respond to defeat in the same way. This article therefore analyses how Welsh Labour utilises the past when constructing its brand, articulating its ideology and challenging opponents. To do this, it analyses Welsh Labour politicians’ references to Aneurin Bevan, a significant figure in Labour history. The analysis argues that while Welsh Labour’s engagement with the past has helped it to maintain electoral dominance, the references do not engage critically with the party’s traditions, risk ideological inertia and signal potential dangers for the dominant party in a one-party dominant system.