
One-Party State : The Labour Party in Wales - Martin Shipton
Martin Shipton
- Pages · 224 pages
- Publication Date · 30/07/2026
- Genre · Politics & government
For over 100 years the Labour Party dominated Welsh politics and Welsh society. For a century, this absolute power resulted in many acknowledging that their career progression, particularly in the public sector, and any hopes for advancement in electoral politics, depended on their membership of and loyalty to the Labour Party. In election after election, Labour won the majority of Westminster seats and controlled local government with a vice-like grip which led to Wales being described as a One-Party State. The Labour�hegemony continued after devolution in 1999, with Labour-led�governments in continuous power and their tight grip on Welsh� politics appearing� unassailable, until now. Undoubtedly one of the most important books on Welsh political history, the highly acclaimed journalist and author Martin Shipton, investigates the truth behind Labour's One-Party State, reveals and considers the evidence of its corruption, nepotism and cronyism, and assesses Labour's legacy on Welsh society - famously described as� The Land of the Pulled-Punch. Comprehensively researched, including numerous interviews with leading political figures including Labour insiders (both named and anonymous), One-Party State, is essential reading for all with an� interest in Welsh history and politics, and the consequences of��absolute power.
Only at Gulp Fiction
Book Lovers' Happy Hour
An hour and a half at the bar, with three cocktails matched to your taste and three books chosen for you. Tell us what you like when you book, and we'll have them waiting when you arrive.
- 1½ hours
- £60 per person
- 3 cocktails, 3 books
Up to four of you can come — book a place each and choose the same time slot, then tell us who you're with. For larger groups, email gulpfictionbooks@gmail.com and we'll arrange it.
Collect in store
Order online and pick it up from the shop. It's free, and usually quicker than the post.
Find us
Units 28–29, Covered Market, Oxford OX1 3DU. Mon–Wed 10–5, Thu–Sat 10–10, Sun 11–4.
Book a table
The bar is open late Thursday to Saturday. Reserve a table for a drink among the books.