SDLP MP Claire Hanna has described herself as a “socialist” as she seeks to become the next leader of the party.
Discussing the recent winter fuel payment cuts and public services, the SDLP leadership candidate told the BBC she is a “socialist” and does not believe austerity is the way forward.
“We don’t have access to the books the Executive have and I think it is fair to say we haven’t had a programme for government and we haven’t has a sense of what the priorities for the executive are or fine detail of the finances they have available,” she explained.
“Its accepted and understood this region is underfunded.
“I’m a socialist, I’m a social democrat, I don’t believe austerity is the right way to go.
“I accept some of the constraints of the economy but I’m hoping that in October, and I’m a critical friend of the Labour Party, I’m hoping that in October that they set out a longer term and more hopeful plan for people, including appropriately taxing those corporations and individuals who have the ability to pay it.”
Ms Hanna officially put her name forward to succeed Colum Eastwood on Sunday and has already been endorsed by the departing Mr Eastwood and Matthew O’Toole, head of the SDLP’s assembly group.
Mr Eastwood will step down as party leader in October, but continue his role at Westminster.
The party’s decision will be announced at its annual conference next month.
