Thread by @TimesCorbyn

Corbyn wants to radically change this country.

The problem is his template is Venezuela, and we know how well that's working out.

'an inspiration to the rest of the world and the voice of an alternative to the US & British neoliberal agenda'
[Morning Star 5 Dec 2005] 1/13

Corbyn (and co-conspirator John McDonnell) have signed countless Early Day Motions like these congratulating Hugo Chavez, the Bolivarian revolution and all the achievement of Venezuela (but never anything negative). 2/13

In May 2006 Hugo paid an unofficial visit to London.

Corbyn: 'His contribution to the elimination of poverty is a huge step forward [make everyone poor] is a huge step forward... There are lessons here that we can all learn.' 3/13

Chavez addressed 900 of the faithful in Camden. In the front row of were Bianca Jagger & Jeremy Corbyn. 4/13

Like all good communists Chavez retired to the Savoy hotel after.

Before flying on to meet his 'fellow revolutionary, Colonel Gaddafi'. 5/13

What the papers didn't say that Chavez's rantings lasted five hours!

Corbyn said: 'Those lucky enough to get in heard a feast of literature, analysis, mathematics, anecdotes, self-criticism'. 6/13

Corbyn actually got meet his hero in Parliament, but Chavez obviously wanted to get back to the Savoy as his speech lasted 'a mere 20 minutes - that socialism represented hope & the human spirit.' 7/13

This is terrifying.

Corbyn & McDonnell supported Chavez closing down a TV station, because it was critical of him.

The ghost of Christmas future. [MS 28 May 2006] 8/13

'Labour leadership contender John McDonnell MP praised Venezuela's revolution that had become "a symbol of struggle for freedom" around the world.' 9/13

Although it looks like Corbyn and Livingstone fell out over who loved Chavez/Venezuela more, they were quickly back together at a conference 'to discuss the revolutionary transformation happening in Venezuela.' 10/13

Hands of Venezuela 'praised Mr McDonnell for his "consistent support for President Chavez and the Bolivarian revolution."

McDonnell said he would '"break the military alliance with George Bush within 24 hours" if the wins the leadership contest.' [in 2006] 11/13

Corbyn was one of 200 people who signed a statement in solidarity with Venezuela.

"The lives of millions of Venezuelans have been transformed by the progressive social democratic policies of Hugo Chavez's government." 12/13

'Venezuela... creating an ideological alternative to the market message delivered hitherto by the US & supported by most of Europe.' [MS 26 Nov 2008 p.7]

Venezuela thread part II tomorrow evening. 13/13