United, even when we disagree!

By Derek Draper and Alex Hilton

There have been several posts on the blogosphere about LabourList and MessageSpace, which places adverts on various blogs. Last week LabourList suggested that the fact that MessageSpace involves Alex Hilton and Jag Singh of Labourhome and anti-Labour blogger Paul Staines aka Guido Fawkes was problematic.

Alex and Jag have made it clear that they are happy to be involved in such a commercial venture alongside their political work and have pointed out the benefits it brings to Labour bloggers. LabourList continues to question the arrangement and the tone and content of Paul Staines’ blog and we will continue to stand up against racist, offensive and hateful comments.

But we have agreed to disagree on the issue of MessageSpace. What matters more is building Labour’s online presence. Dozens of great blogs, including Labourhome, Go Fourth and LabourList are making a real impact and we want that to carry on. We also need to make sure we continue to engage with people on the issues that really matter and ensure the spotlight is kept on the Tories.

Despite our differences we have worked together on our own projects and hitherto been supportive of each other. Having agreed to disagree on MessageSpace that will now continue.

Yours in comradeship,

Alex Hilton and Derek Draper