A 1983 moment for the Labour left

It now seems fairly clear that John McDonnell's name will not be on the ballot paper when nominations close for the post of Labour Party Leader (and, by default, prime minister) tomorrow lunchtime.
This surely marks an historic low for the Labour left. Much as they were later accused of betrayals, it is important to remember that the likes of Harold Wilson and Neil Kinnock were elected as leader not just with the support of the left, but as the left-wing candidate.
In truth, McDonnell's campaign has never seemed one tht had much hope of getting anywhere very fast. It is at least possible to conceive of McDonnell holding some sort of post in government; he has ability, experience and is an engaging figure. But can you imagine a Cabinet dominated by some of the Campaign Group.
It all brings back memories of John Redwood's risible campaign to become leader of the Tory Party, backed by a dreadful bunch of political gargoyles and human misfits.
The left has argued, rightly, that the Labour Party needs to re-connect with ordinary voters to win again. So much more must the Labour left.
I had hoped in this posting to draw some political parallels with events in the Labour Party's history. This is after all supposed to be a history blog. But, quite honestly, I can see no parallels. For all that it will one day fall, Labour is in government and the left is so marginalised that it hardly matters. If there has to be an historical parallel, then this is the Labour left's 1983 moment.