MILLENNIUM

Early day motion 222, tabled 20 December 1999 by Andrew MacKinlay (Labour). Signed by 20 members.

That this House notes that some people regard the commercial hype surrounding the so-called 'millennium celebrations' to be disproportionate and inappropriate; considers that the hallmark of the 20th century has been world wars and mass genocide on an unparalled scale caused through the selfishness and miscalculations of kings, politicians, generals and others in privileged and high places; soberly reflects that all the problems of poverty and surplus shall still exist on 1st January 2000; recognises that in future years humankind will continue to follow this tragic pattern unless or until world leaders break the mould and courageously address the disparities of power and wealth (both worldwide and within their own communities), as well as controlling the greed to global corporations who, in contrast to ordinary people, enjoy ready access and disproportionate influence on governments and decision makers; calls for initiatives based on the principle that those with the broadest backs shall bear the heaviest burdens; and hopes that the time between this commercial binge and the true millennium of 31 December 2000 will be used to begin a meaningful attempt at making the coming century better that the last.

Signatures by party: Labour 17, Conservative 1, Labour/Co-operative 1, Liberal Democrat 1.