15,000 of the 'real big society' brave the rain to say 'Put People First'

15,000 hardy souls braved torrential rain to demonstrate in Glasgow on 1 October to demand the Government 'puts people first' through:-

• a redistribution of wealth across Scotland through fair taxes and living wage jobs
  
• protection for the hardest hit through decent services and fair benefits

Faith, equality, anti-poverty and trade union groups across Scotland came together to campaign for the alternative to cuts and to say 'there is a better way'.

Ex government minister and veteran campaigner Tony Benn addressed the rally and slammed the excesses of the bankers while working people were being forced to 'pay the cost'.

Calling for 'dignity' for working people, Tony praised the spirit of the march and rally. With that spirit and with so many young people turning out, Tony told the rally 'We will win!".

UNISON Scottish Secretary Mike Kirby, this year's STUC President, praised the trade unions, community groups, faith groups and wider public who had braved the rain to turn out in their thousands. "You are the real big Society", Mike told them.

Tony Benn was in Glasgow in connection with his key role in the Upper Clyde Shipbuilders 'work in' 40 years ago which was being commemorated through a number of events in Glasgow on 1 October.

Referring to those who took part in the dispute as 'heroes', Tony underlined the need for today's campaigns to learn from that struggle.