What is ALDCo?
The Association of Liberal Democrat Co-operators (ALDCo) is an organisation within the Liberal Democrats. Its aims are to promote co-operation and mutualism within the Party, and to promote the Party to co-operatives and mutuals. It also has a keen interest in subjects related to co-operation and mutualism, such as Community Politics and Ethical Fair Trading.
Most members of ALDCo are members of The Co-operative, and use many of its services. Some members also belong to other co-operative groups, such as The Phone Co-op, or community based co-operative businesses and/or organisations. All members believe that the co-operative principle of organisation is very relevant in modern Britain, particularly in those parts of the country which have suffered most in the current difficult economic and political circumstances.
Whilst we would like to see a greater use of the co-operative principle throughout society, we are realistic enough to accept that it is not a panacea, and it may not be suitable in every sphere of life or situation. At its heart, however, co-operation does empower individuals, families and communities to work together to tackle the problems they face.
Our argument is that if co-operation was employed more generally in society, there would be fewer problems, because so many more people would have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to be able to take control of a greater part of their own lives and of the places where they live.
