“... is a democratic socialist party. It believes that by the strength of our common endeavour we achieve more than we achieve alone, so as to create for each of us the means to realise our true potential and for all of us a community in which power, wealth and opportunity are in the hands of the many, not the few. Where the rights we enjoy reflect the duties we owe. And where we live together, freely, in a spirit of solidarity, tolerance and respect.” - Clause 4 of the Labour Party Constitution

The Labour Party was set up in 1900 to fight for representation for the Labour movement - trade unions and socialist societies - in Parliament. Its first leader was Keir Hardie, one of the earliest Labour MP's.

Though Labour was only in government for three short periods of the 20th century, its achievements revolutionised the lives of the British people. The values Labour stands for today are those which have guided it throughout its existence.

Our values :

• Social justice
• Reward for hard work
• Decency
• Rights matched by responsibilities

How the party works

As a democratic, socialist party we welcome people to join the party from all walks of life, have their say and influence policy. We welcome membership applications from individuals, families, young people, students, workers, unemployed, older people - anyone with an interest in building a better Britain.

To newcomers, working out how everything fits together can seem a bit of a maze - but don’t let that put you off as there’s a common goal: ensuring the party remains open and democratic and helps maintain contact between the party, the people and the government. Our structure, with the popular policy forums, enables more people than ever before to have their say.

Where you fit in

New ideas are vital if the party is to grow and develop - and we welcome your views and experiences. From your local branch to conference, the party structure has been devised so that Labour Party members can have a say on policy and contribute to our next general election manifesto.

The set up

Branch (BLP)

Your local party, based on the ward boundaries for the election of councillors. A lot of Labour Party activity takes place at branch level. Labour members can take part in choosing local council candidates.

Constituency (CLP)

Made up of several branches and based on the electoral area for the election of MPs. Via your CLP, you can choose the members from your area to represent you at annual conference and you can help select your parliamentary candidate.

Local and regional policy forums

As a member you will be invited to attend local and regional policy forums throughout the year. Informal, friendly gatherings, they are places where you can discuss party policy. Each policy forum makes submissions to the policy commissions. This is where you can contribute to our next manifesto.

National Policy Forum (NPF)

Your CLP delegates to conference choose people to serve on the NPF, which also has representatives from local government. The NPF meets several times a year to make sure that policy documents reflect the broad consensus in the party. Policy commissions Eight policy commissions cover different aspects of policy such as welfare, health, crime and justice. They are made up of representatives from the government, the NPF and the NEC, who meet to discuss submissions from branches, CLPs, policy forums and affiliates. They prepare policy papers to be considered by members and others.

National Executive Committee (NEC)

Made up of representatives from each section of the party - government, MPs, MEPs, councillors, trade unions and CLPs. Members vote for their CLP representatives in a ballot each year. The NEC sets the party's objectives and oversees the running of the party nationally.

Annual Conference

The ultimate authority in the party, conference decides the policy framework from which the next manifesto will be drawn and sets party rules. Conference considers the policy papers prepared by the policy commissions after consulting local parties. Members choose delegates to conference - and those delegates could include you.