THE Socialist Alliance Party has launched its York election manifesto in the "traditional" way - with a public meeting.

The group was the only political party taking part in this year's council elections to expound its policies in the "traditional" way, with each of its three candidates speaking at Guppy's.

Mark Russell, York Rail, Maritime and Transport union secretary, will stand in the Guildhall ward.

Bob Looker, a retired politics teacher, will fight the Micklegate ward, while Andrew Collingwood, a lab technician at York University, will stand for election at Heslington.

The Socialist Alliance is standing on an anti-war mandate, but the party also wants to see affordable homes for all in York, protection of the environment, and public services replacing Private Finance Initiatives (PFIs).

The party also wants to save Clifford's Tower from being overwhelmed by more shopping facilities, is pushing for the compulsory purchase of Bootham Crescent and wants to end the "campaign" against asylum seekers.

The Socialist Alliance has taken a stand against the Coppergate II development and is advocating the development of cheap and environmentally-friendly integrated transport systems.

"People before profit" is the watchword, with policies also looking to defend council housing levels and comprehensive education.

Mr Russell said: "The vast majority of people who work in York can't afford to buy a house here. It is shocking that you need about £25,000 a year to buy a two-up, two-down terrace."

Bob Looker said: "I am talking about the continuing importance of opposition to the American invasion of Iraq."

Andrew Collingwood said: "I am very much against the war, but equality is equally very important. There has been a number of racial attacks and it is something I feel very strongly about."

Updated: 11:16 Friday, April 11, 2003