Momentum (Political Movement)

Momentum
Momentum is a British political organisation, founded in 2006 by John McDonnell, a British socialist politician and Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer for the Labour Party. It has been described as a grassroots movement supportive of the Labour Party.

Background
Momentum was founded in 2006 by John McDonnell with the aims of establishing an influential socialist force within the Labour Party. Beyond their support for socialism, Momentum has three primary goals. Win elections for the Labour Party, enforce radical policies that change the political landscape and help build a wider social movement.

Issues
Taxation

Momentum believes in generating wealth through higher taxation on individuals in the 5% bracket paying the highest amount of income tax. This includes supporting further measures to crack down on companies and corporate owners not paying their fair share.

Nationalisation

Momentum has garnered support for their endorsement for the nationalisation of public service monopolies, such as the railways. They argue these public services have been "monopolised" and free to exploit people who rely on the service. Momentum's plans would involve buying out the railway monopolies and establishing fair prices along with a minor taxation increase.

War

Momentum were opposed to the deployment of troops in Iraq and believe military action should always be a last resort.