Search results for: “islington”

Jeremy Corbyn MP
www.jeremycorbyn.org.uk

I extend my ongoing thanks to everyone for the fantastic work that is being done in our community so far this year, and most likely by the significant contribution from anyone reading this update.

I have continued to represent you in Parliament as your MP, speaking out on many issues including the privatisation of our NHS, falling school rolls and the importance of green spaces. I have also been determined to ensure Gaza stays at the forefront of our politicians’ minds. We all continue to watch in horror as the war claims more and more innocent lives. As I have been doing from the outset, I will keep raising my voice and calling for: an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and a path to a just and lasting peace.

Over the past few months (which included a parliamentary recess), I have had the opportunity to spend additional time in our wonderful constituency.

Chatting with and listening to your concerns continues to be hugely beneficial for me in representing your needs in parliament.

This report covers what I consider to be the most significant issues of late.

In Parliament and work with other MPs

This report covers what I consider to be the most significant issues of late.

Refugees

I voted against the Rwanda Bill (22/04), a disgusting piece of legislation designed to demonise the world’s most vulnerable people. I have always spoken up for refugees, and against the government’s Rwanda Plan, and notably over the past few months on:
• Asylum and Migration (14/03) – I argued that asylum seekers should be given the right to work.
• Safety of Rwanda (15/04) – I reminded the government that refugees are people trying to survive in a very difficult world.
• Immigration Update (01/05) – I called for the government to treat refugees as human beings!
• Situation in Sudan (22/04) – I asked the government what it is doing to address the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has caused 8.2 million people to leave their homes.
• The dire situation in the DRC, and notably, sexual violence as a weapon of war.

I have written two articles on the need for a humane asylum system. You can read my articles here: Jeremy Corbyn – We must stand up for the rights of refugees (labouroutlook.org) and here: Jeremy Corbyn: Our Political Class Are Emboldening the Far Right (tribunemag.co.uk)

Housing

I have urged the Minister for Building Safety to publish the audits conducted by his department on fire risk reports submitted by Galliard Homes for Drayton Park Apartments in my constituency (27/03).

Housing was one of the issues I raised in response to the Chancellor’s Spring Statement (06/03). As I told the House, we have 15,000 households on the waiting list for social housing in our borough. The only way forward to deal with the housing crisis is not to pledge to build millions of homes, as the Government are doing, but to pledge to build council housing at secure and affordable rents to guarantee decent-quality housing for people.

You can read an article I wrote for Labour Outlook about the budget here: “Austerity is a political choice, not an economic necessity” – Jeremy Corbyn exclusive on #Budget24 (labouroutlook.org)

International / Gaza

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) published their ruling on South Africa’s case against Israel under the Genocide Convention (27/01), finding a plausible risk of genocide in Gaza. The verdict was a vital step toward justice for the Palestinian people – and it should be implemented in full. We must not stop calling for a ceasefire to save human lives.

Following the ruling, I asked a government minister (29/01) if all British military aid to Israel had been suspended. He refused to answer. We must end all arms sales to Israel, now. I also expressed my disgust at the government’s decision to suspend funding to UNRWA. Along with so many others I was horrified by these decisions; of the sheer moral depravity toward Palestinians starving to death.

This was one of many occasions that I have spoken out against the war in Gaza in Parliament over the past few months. Just a few others listed here include:
• A Westminster Hall Adjournment Debate on Humanitarian Aid and Children in Gaza (08/02). I told of my visit to a school at Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza. The children were excited, artistic and full of hope. That school has now been completely destroyed. How many more children must die before our government calls for a ceasefire?
• A debate on a Ceasefire in Gaza (21/02). I repeated my call for an immediate ceasefire.
• A debate on Israel and Gaza (27/2). I called for the suspension of arms to Israel.
• An Iran-Israel update (15/4). I told the Prime Minister that there was only one route out of this perpetual cycle of violence: ending the occupation of Palestine.
• An Urgent Question on UK Armed Forces in Middle East (29/4). I asked the Minister to ensure us that we will not be deploying British troops anywhere on the on the ground in Gaza.

It was a pleasure to welcome a group of Palestinian students to Parliament. Young Palestinians deserve a future of freedom and hope — you will always have my full support and solidarity.

I also commend the students who are protesting on campuses toward the need for a ceasefire and I’ve visited some of them to declare my support and solidarity.

More locally, I spoke briefly against the war on Gaza for the North London Palestine Assembly on Gaza at the Methodist Church (31/01).

Joint Enterprise Not Guilty by Association (JENGbA)

After attending a demonstration at the statue of Mandela in Parliament Square (02/02), I supported Kim Johnson’s Private Members Bill on Jengba which sadly, and as is the case for so many Private Members Bills, met its end. It did however raise support for those who fall victim to the outdated and unfair practice of guilty-by-association.

Environment

I attended a Westminster Hall debate to support the ratification of the Global Ocean Treaty (25/04). I stressed the importance of marine protection zones and warned against the environmental impact of deep-sea mining companies and deep-bed trawling, and called for greater regulation of our oceans, particularly around waste and pollution from ships.

Northern Ireland

I spoke in Parliament after the Minister for Northern Ireland made a statement in response to the power-sharing agreement in Northern Ireland. I welcomed the decision and insisted that it is for the people of the island of Ireland to decide their future, and no one else. You can read my article on this subject here: Peace is hard, but peace is possible | The Irish Post

Other international issues

I visited the Mexican embassy (31/01) – Dan Carden MP was sworn in the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Mexico.

I remain a member of several All Party Parliamentary Groups and Parliamentary Groups including the Parliamentary Socialist Campaign Group (SCG).

My most recent outputs, be it a parliamentary intervention or speech, or a comment outside the confines of parliament are all accessible on my social media which can be easily located on my website: Jeremy Corbyn MP

Islington

Thank you to Islington Council for a moving and inclusive Holocaust Memorial event (26/01), to remember the 6 million Jews and other persecuted groups murdered by the Nazis. We are united against antisemitism, opposed to all forms of hatred & defiant in our pledge to say: never again.

Education

We’ve all by now heard the sad news that Islington Council has proposed the closure of Montem Primary School and amalgamating it into Duncombe Primary School. Both are fantastic schools doing brilliant work educating our children and supporting some of our most vulnerable families. I am very sad about this and have met with parents from Montem, as well as with Islington Council to express my views against the proposal.

Falling rolls across the country and thirteen years of government cuts to education budgets have left schools in a dire state. Islington Council, like all boroughs, is faced with an enormously difficult situation to handle, and I do believe they are trying their best to protect our education settings. This situation calls for a new strategic approach that is borough-wide and will be focused on maintaining our existing schools. I will continue making my views known, and I encourage you all to submit your views when the formal consultation process begins.

I continue to visit schools in the constituency and welcome groups of students in parliament. I had the pleasure of attending the Year 6 assembly at Grafton Primary School (12/03), and walk around Hargrave Park School (03/05). A very warm welcome to St John’s Upper Holloway School on their parliamentary visit (29/02).

Community groups

It was a great pleasure to visit Mildmay Community Centre (9/02). What a fabulous place this is; filled with kind and dedicated people looking out for one another. Like all community centres, Mildmay is a space where you can get a warm meal, speak with your neighbours, and get support from caring individuals. In the words of its fantastic Manager, Teena Phillips, community centres are a home away from home. I visited again in early March, where I joined the arts and crafts club! You can support them here: mildmay-community-partnership.square.site

We had a wonderful day at Sunnyside Community Gardens (08/04). Thank you to Alan for putting on a delicious lunch for us all. We must defend our green spaces! If you can, please support Sunnyside here: https://sunnysidecommunitygardens.org/new-building/

Find out where your local community centre is and how you can support them through the council website: https://www.islington.gov.uk/advice/voluntary-and-community-sector/community-centres-in-islington

I kept up my usual regular visits to local community organisations which this month, included:
Hanley Crouch Trustees (25/01)
Stacey St Homeless hostel, Brickworks (29/01)
Caxton House (08/02) – I spoke to the wonderful Sue Collins about the hub and the challenges they are currently facing. Unfortunately, Caxton House is one of 5 hubs that had their funding cut by Islington Council. I was sad to hear that Caxton House will need to cut out events for the community, and potentially be closed for 1 day a week in order to remain afloat. I appreciate the financial pressures the council is facing, however, I am deeply concerned about the impact of these cuts on the ability of these hubs to serve the community they were intended to support.
Elizabeth House (12/04) goes from strength to strength and I was very pleased to hear that they are will be offering more services and support to people across the local community than ever before.
The Islington Chinese Association’s New Year celebration (17/02) invited me to their “Soaring Dragon” Lunar New Year Celebrations which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Happy two year birthday to Streets Kitchen Solidarity Hub! I was very pleased to share celebratory cake with the lovely people who are making such a different to all. Keep up the excellent work (16/02).
If you’re in Finsbury Park, make sure to visit 113-115 Fonthill Road to check out the brilliant t-shirt designs of five talented young people. The t-shirts are the outcome of a six month project by Islington Council which mentored and trained these talented youngsters through a project called Hope-FX. Celebrate their creativity with a t-shirt!

Thank you to Finsbury Park Mosque, who hosted the 2nd annual community Iftar with Arsenal Football Club. We were joined by brilliant faith & community leaders, local councillors, and young people servants showcasing the best of our local community.

I spoke at an Islington Local Environment meeting organised by Martin Franklin (08/02). The event was entitled “Unions for a just transition”. We had a wonderful discussion about the need for a union-led movement that creates millions of green jobs, and which places the burden of cost on the wealthiest in our society. There is no climate justice without social justice!

I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to speak at the Minority Matters Eid Celebration Party. It was wonderful to see children from across our community in a space where they feel supported to be the best version of themselves.

I attended a meeting with Islington Police (28/03) to discuss escalating tensions between members of the Eritrean community and the underlying causes. While acknowledging the fundamental right to protest and freedom of expression, we agreed that violent protests have no place in our borough. We also agreed to work alongside the local authority to foster open conversations with the Eritrean community in an effort to diffuse these tensions and ensure the safety and well-being of all members of our community.

Islington Council hosted a spectacular Nowruz Event Celebration (12/04). We were treated to beautiful traditional music and dancing, as well as delicious food. And it was a pleasure to meet many of the people who make up the large Kurdish Community of Islington.

Islington celebrated as a “Borough of Sanctuary” (05/02); the NRPF, Refugee and Migrant Service. I attended a great celebration (Sanctuary for Refugees, Migrants and Asylum Seekers). It was wonderful celebrating amazing contributions of refugees in Islington. We heard a wonderful poem ‘Sanctuary’, written with the voices of the women from All Change, an acoustic performance by our very own Councillor Roulin Khondoker, and empowering renditions of songs from Ukrainian refugee Tetiana. Islington has a rich history of welcoming those in need, and I am proud to be part of this community.

Healthcare: Along with many others I attended a Save the Whittington (10/02) event at Lauderdale House, in defence of its fantastic maternity services. I will continue to defend the Whittington’s maternity services, just as we did back in 2010!

Street Stalls

We had two more fantastic street stalls this month. One on Nags head (27/02, photo above) and another on Holloway Road (10/02). Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat about the issues affecting our community. In Islington North, we believe a better world is possible — and we are not going anywhere. Stay updated about my work and campaigns here: https://actionnetwork.org/forms/corbyn

Beyond Islington

I attended the Parliamentary Assembly Council of Europe’s (PACE) for two sessions this year.

During the first session, I made the case for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. Since then, I attended two national Gaza marches in central London, and a demonstration in Westminster. We continue to march because people continue to die.

During the second session, I spoke out against the privatisation of water. We need to stop bailing out our greedy private companies and bring our water into public ownership instead! I also spoke out against the imprisonment of anti-war campaigners around the world, namely Boris Kagarlitsky and Julian Assange. We have to stand up equally for human rights, everywhere. Finally, I stood up for the rights of LGBT+ people, who are still having to fight for the freedom to be themselves.

Those guilty of war crimes evade accountability. Yet those who expose war crimes are punished. Julian Assange’s final UK hearing took place on the 20th and 21st February. We assembled outside the Royal Courts of Justice to oppose his extradition to the US. If extradited, Julian faces life in prison. And for what? For exposing the truth. Journalism is not a crime. Free Julian Assange.

Royal Courts of Justice

I met with a Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) contact who further enlightened me regarding the desperate situation in the DRC and notably, the actions of the M23.

Just like the people of Palestine, West Papua, Yemen, Sudan and beyond, the people of the DRC deserve to live in peace and freedom. You can read my article here: The UK cannot ignore the crisis in DRC | Opinions | Al Jazeera

This is something I raised at the annual Morning Star conference (10/02), where I also spoke about the ever-pressing need for climate sustainability, an end to arms sales to nations that breach human rights, and urgent action to reduce grotesque levels of global inequality.

Before that I spoke at Anti War meeting on Gaza/Yemen (28/01) in East London alongside a number of other well known anti war activists. Since then, I have attended numerous National Demonstrations to demand a ceasefire and an end to arms sales to Israel (08/03, 13/4, 28/4).

Hyde Park

You can read an article I wrote for the Guardian on the need for peace here: Our leaders seem determined to give war a chance. Their thirst for conflict endangers us all | Jeremy Corbyn | The Guardian

My 2024 Calendars with up-to-date information are freely available for anyone wishing to have one or more. Please telephone the local office if you’d like to receive some and this can be arranged. I’m keen for them to be widely distributed so that everyone knows how to contact me with ease.

You can see all my contributions in parliament as well as any public comment I issue on my social media:

Instagram (@jeremycorbyn)

Twitter (@jeremycorbyn)

Facebook (JeremyCorbynMP)

My regular constituency advice sessions continue and please ring to request an appointment, or assistance: Additional telephone appointments with me can also be arranged as appropriate.
Tel: 0207 561 7488 (Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 12pm)
Write to: Rt Hon Jeremy Corbyn MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
Email: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk

I had the opportunity to spend additional time in our wonderful constituency recently due to a half term recess. Chatting to local people and listening to their concerns continues to be hugely beneficial for me in representing those needs in parliament.

We all continue to watch in horror as the war in Gaza claims more and more innocent lives. I will keep raising my voice for the same thing I have called for from the very beginning: an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and a path to a just and lasting peace.

In Parliament and work with other MPs

Gaza

On the 27th January, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) published their ruling on South Africa’s case against Israel under the Genocide Convention. They found a plausible risk of genocide in Gaza. The verdict was a vital step toward justice for the Palestinian people – and it should be implemented in full. We must not stop calling for a ceasefire to save human lives.

Following the ruling, I asked a government minister (29/01) if all British military aid to Israel had been suspended. He refused to answer. We must end all arms sales to Israel, now. I also expressed my disgust at the government’s decision to suspend funding to UNRWA. This was an act of collective punishment — our government should be ashamed of its moral depravity toward Palestinians starving to death.

I also spoke in a Westminster Hall Adjournment Debate on Humanitarian Aid and Children in Gaza (08/02). I told of my visit to a school at Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza. The children were excited, artistic and full of hope. That school has now been completely destroyed. How many more children must die before our government calls for a ceasefire?

Joint Enterprise Not Guilty by Association (JENGbA)

After attending a demonstration at the statue of Mandela in Parliament Square (02/02), I supported Kim Johnson’s Private Members Bill on Jengba which sadly, and as is the case for so many Private Members Bills, met its end. It did however raise support for those who fall victim to the outdated and unfair practice of guilty-by-association.

Northern Ireland

I spoke in Parliament after the Minister for Northern Ireland made a statement in response to the power-sharing agreement in Northern Ireland. I welcomed the decision, and insisted that it is for the people of the island of Ireland to decide their future, not anybody else.

Other international issues

I visited the Mexican embassy (31/01) – Dan Carden MP was sworn in the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Mexico.

I remain a member of several All Party Parliamentary Groups and Parliamentary Groups including the Parliamentary Socialist Campaign Group (SCG).

My most recent outputs, be it a parliamentary intervention or speech, or a comment outside the confines of parliament are all accessible on my social media which can be easily located on my website: Jeremy Corbyn MP

Islington

Thank you to Islington Council for a moving and inclusive Holocaust Memorial event (26/01), to remember the 6 million Jews and other persecuted groups murdered by the Nazis. We are united against antisemitism, opposed to all forms of hatred & defiant in our pledge to say: never again.

Education

We’ve all by now heard the sad news that Islington Council has proposed the closure of Montem Primary School and amalgamating it into Duncombe Primary School. Both are fantastic schools doing brilliant work educating our children and supporting some of our most vulnerable families. I am very sad about this and have met with parents from Montem, as well as with Islington Council to express my views against the proposal.

Falling rolls across the country and thirteen years of government cuts to education budgets have left schools in a dire state. Islington Council, like all boroughs, is faced with an enormously difficult situation to handle, and I do believe they are trying their best to protect our education settings. This situation calls for a new strategic approach that is borough-wide and will be focused on maintaining our existing schools. I will continue making my views known, and I encourage you all to submit your views when the formal consultation process begins.

Community groups

It was a great pleasure to visit Mildmay Community Centre (9/02). What a fabulous place this is; filled with kind and dedicated people looking out for one another. Like all community centres, Mildmay is a space where you can get a warm meal, speak with your neighbours, and get support from caring individuals. In the words of its fantastic Manager, Teena Phillips, community centres are a home away from home.

Find out where your local community centre is and how you can support them through the council website: https://www.islington.gov.uk/advice/voluntary-and-community-sector/community-centres-in-islington

I kept up my usual regular visits to local community organisations which this month, included: Hanley Crouch Trustees (25/01)
Stacey St Homeless hostel, Brickworks (29/01) Caxton House (08/02) – I spoke to the wonderful Sue Collins about the hub and the challenges they are currently facing. Unfortunately, Caxton House is one of 5 hubs that had their funding cut by Islington Council. I was sad to hear that Caxton House will need to cut out events for the community, and potentially be closed for 1 day a week in order to remain afloat. I appreciate the financial pressures the council is facing, however, I am deeply concerned about the impact of these cuts on the ability of these hubs to serve the community they were intended to support.

I also attended the Islington Chinese Association’s New Year celebration (17/02).

Happy two year birthday to Streets Kitchen Solidarity Hub! I was very pleased to share celebratory cake with the lovely people who are making such a different to all. Keep up the excellent work (16/02).

If you’re in Finsbury Park, make sure to visit 113-115 Fonthill Road to check out the brilliant t-shirt designs of five talented young people. The t-shirts are the outcome of a six month project by Islington Council which mentored and trained these talented youngsters through a project called Hope-FX. Celebrate their creativity with a t-shirt if you can!

Environment

I spoke at a fantastic Islington Local Environment meeting organised by constituent, Martin Franklin (08/02). The event was entitled “Unions for a just transition”. We had a wonderful discussion about the need for a union-led movement that creates millions of green jobs, and which places the burden of cost on the wealthiest in our society. There is no climate justice without social justice!

On the 5th February, Islington was celebrated as a “Borough of Sanctuary”; the NRPF, Refugee and Migrant Service. I attended a great event celebrating Islington’s status as an official Borough of Sanctuary for Refugees, Migrants and Asylum Seekers. It was wonderful celebrating the amazing contributions of refugees in Islington. We heard a wonderful poem ‘Sanctuary’, written with the voices of the women from All Change, an acoustic performance by our very own Councillor Roulin Khondoker, and empowering renditions of songs from Ukrainian refugee Tetiana. Islington has a rich history of welcoming those in need, and I am proud to be part of this community.

Healthcare

I attended a Save the Whittington (10/02) event at Lauderdale House, in defence of its fantastic maternity services. It was very well-attended. I will continue to defend the Whittington’s maternity services, just as we did back in 2010!

Peace

I spoke briefly against the war on Gaza for the North London Palestine Assembly on Gaza at the Methodist Church (31/01).

Street Stalls

Street stall, Nags Head

We had two more fantastic street stalls this month. One on Nags head (27/02) and another on Holloway Road (10/02). Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat about the issues affecting our community. In Islington North, we believe a better world is possible — and we are not going anywhere. Stay updated about my work and campaigns here: https://actionnetwork.org/forms/corbyn

Beyond Islington

Peace

I attended the Parliamentary Assembly Council of Europe’s (PACE) first 2024 session. Whilst there, I made the case for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. Since then, I attended two national Gaza marches in central London, and a demonstration in Westminster. We continue to march because people continue to die.

Those guilty of war crimes evade accountability. Yet those who expose war crimes are punished. Julian Assange’s final UK hearing took place on the 20th and 21st February. We assembled outside the Royal Courts of Justice to oppose his extradition to the US. If extradited, Julian faces life in prison. And for what? For exposing the truth. Journalism is not a crime. Free Julian Assange.

Royal Courts of Justice

I met with a Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) contact who further enlightened me regarding the desperate situation in the DRC and notably, the actions of the M23.

Just like the people of Palestine, West Papua, Yemen, Sudan and beyond, the people of the DRC deserve to live in peace and freedom. You can read my article here: The UK cannot ignore the crisis in DRC | Opinions | Al Jazeera

This is something I raised at the annual Morning Star conference (10/02), where I also spoke about the ever-pressing need for climate sustainability, an end to arms sales to nations that breach human rights, and urgent action to reduce grotesque levels of global inequality.

Before that, on Sunday 28th January, I spoke at Anti War meeting on Gaza/Yemen in East London alongside a number of other well known anti war activists. More than 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza, yet our government would rather risk a wider war in the region than call for a ceasefire. Where are the voices for peace?

Refugees

I also wrote an article on the need for a humane asylum system. This government knows their Rwanda plan will never work. That’s not the point. Their goal is to whip up hatred, division and fear. That’s why we must keep standing up for refugees, and their right to be treated with dignity and respect. You can read my article here: Jeremy Corbyn – We must stand up for the rights of refugees (labouroutlook.org)

My 2023 Calendars with up-to-date information are freely available for anyone wishing to have one or more. Please telephone the local office if you’d like to receive some and this can be arranged. I’m keen for them to be widely distributed so that everyone knows how to contact me with ease.

You can see all my contributions in parliament as well as any public comment I issue on my social media:

Instagram (@jeremycorbyn)
Twitter (@jeremycorbyn)
Facebook (JeremyCorbynMP)

My regular constituency advice sessions continue and you can please ring my office for an appointment, or assistance: Additional telephone appointments with me can also be arranged where that it is sensible.

Tel: 0207 561 7488 (Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 12pm)

Write to: Rt Hon Jeremy Corbyn MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Email: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk

We are now well into 2024 though this is my first newsletter since the Christmas break. I hope that you all managed to find some time to rest and spend time with loved ones, despite the very difficult backdrop of pain and suffering in the world that we continue to witness.

Christmas should be a time of celebration. For those enduring the horrors of war, it will have been a time of mourning and loss. For refugees feeling conflict and human rights abuses, a time of desperation. And for millions of people in this country, it has been a time of immense stress as they struggle to put food on the table, heat their homes and pay their rent.

2024 sees us continuing the call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, just as we did at the end of 2023: and standing up for refugees, and campaigning for a society free of poverty, hunger, and homelessness.
You can read more about my hopes for the year ahead, here:
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/2024-year-ahead

In Parliament and work with other MPs

Israel and Gaza
Over 26,000 people have now been killed in Gaza. Thousands more are missing under the rubble.

We must have the start of a long-term process that brings about real justice for the Palestinian people, or we will be back here again with more war crimes, more deaths, more destruction, and the horrors for decades to come.

It is unconscionable that this massacre has been allowed to continue into 2024. I will continue to use my voice in Parliament to call for an immediate ceasefire. I have spoken often about this, and more recently in two Urgent Questions, both of which can be found here:
https://hansard.parliament.uk/search/MemberContributions?memberId=185

Here, you will also find my reply to the Prime Minister’s statement following the UK’s military action in Yemen. Some 17 million people in the region are living in hunger and food shortage. The people of Yemen have been bombarded by weapons supplied by Britain from Saudi Arabia for years, and we have a dreadful conflict going on in Gaza, where so very many are either dead or missing. Where is the comprehensive plan by the western nations to try to bring about peace?

I’ve travelled extensively in speaking out for a ceasefire since my last newsletter; my visits include the following:
Lunchtime recital of the Laws of War @ SOAS (16/11)
Edinburgh Demonstration for Gaza (25/11)
Tower Hamlets STW meeting (01/12)
Jewish Voices for Labour AGM (03/12)
British Interparliamentary Union (BGIPU) meeting on Palestine (04/12)
European Muslim Forum zoom on Gaza from Istanbul (08/12)
Parliament Square Gaza demonstration (09/12)
Liverpool demonstration for Gaza (10/12)
Liberation Webinar – End the War on Palestine (11/12)
East London Palestine gathering (11/12)
Parliamentary Debate (Zarah Sultana) on Arms Export licences for sales to Israel (12/12)
Islington Town Hall (outside) Palestine Demonstration (14/12)
Palestine Solidarity Campaign new activists event at Hamilton House (14/12)
Palestine Solidarity Fundraiser Cook-along online (29/12)
Leeds Palestine Rally (30/12) Batley Palestine Meeting (30/12)
Preston Palestine meeting (06/01)
Visit to the Hague as a witness for the South African Submission on Israel/Genocide to the International Criminal Court (11/01) Finsbury Park Concert for Gaza (11/01)
Visit to Finsbury Park Mosque (12/01)
Central London Demonstration for Peace (Gaza) (13/01)
West Midlands Demonstration for Peace (Gaza) (20/01)

Additionally, I have lost count of how many excellent briefing meetings have been held in Parliament on the situation in Gaza and either myself or my staff attend wherever possible in order to be kept up to date on the latest developments in this unfolding horror we are witnessing.

I have also expressed my support for Dr Ofer Cassim MK who is about to be suspended from the Knesset for speaking out in support of the Palestinians and calling for a ceasefire. My EDM on this was tabled earlier this week:
Dr Ofer Cassif – Early Day Motions – UK Parliament

My work at The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) continues. It sits periodically and recently that included a one day sitting of the Migration Committee where we discussed the recent trip to Calais and our findings on it (08/12).

We (16/01) interviewed candidates for the position of Commissioner for Human Rights, and I remain very supportive of Michael Flaherty from Ireland, and I am delighted that he was elected to the post.

I attended the first quarterly session of 2024 in Strasbourg where I spoke on several issues including the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza once more.

Migration
I spoke out in two debates on the government’s Rwanda plan, and unsurprisingly, I voted against it. As I asked my fellow colleagues in Parliament, should we not be thinking about the desperate people who have fled poverty and war, instead of spending this vast amount of money on a failed scheme?

Refugees didn’t cause the NHS crisis. Refugees didn’t decimate our social housing. Refugees didn’t sell off our railways, water, and energy. That was the Tories — and their attempts to scapegoat desperate people in search of safety is an utter disgrace.

We must keep standing up for refugees, and their right to be treated with dignity & respect. You can read more about my support for refugees, here:
https://labouroutlook.org/2024/01/19/jeremy-corbyn-we-must-stand-up-for-the-rights-of-refugees/

I remain a member of several Parliamentary Groups including the Parliamentary Socialist Campaign Group (SCG). The SCG meets regularly in parliament to discuss how best to promote a socialist agenda both inside and outside parliament.

At the British Interparliamentary Union (IPU) AGM (29/11) I was re-elected as Honorary President for a further year.

You can read my full contributions in Parliament online, either on Hansard or at They Work For You, here:
Jeremy Corbyn MP, Islington North – TheyWorkForYou

Islington
I have attended and spoken at many local events, and I list some, though not all here:
Breakfast launch of the Housing Association Partnership Agreement to promote the highest possible services to the 17,800 Housing Association residents and the 36,000 Islington Council tenants and leaseholders and to also aspire to address the local communities future housing needs (16/11).
Angel Shed Youth Theatre’s 20th anniversary events (Sunday (19/11) to mark the occasion of it as well as a later performance at City and Islington College (15/12).
Holloway Park construction event Zoom (22/12)
Finsbury Park and Blackstock Road Community Meeting (23/11)
Safer Spaces Walk and Talk events (24/11)
RMT Finsbury Park AGM (24/11)
NHS North Central London zoom meeting on the Start Well programme (27/11)
LBI Islamophobia Awareness Month event @ Islington Town Hall (29/11)
Online – Islington’s Faith Forum event for a “New Immigration Support” system (29/11)
Islington unison Branch Open day/evening at the Town Hall (30/11)
Caribbean Labour Solidarity Zoom (03/12)
Visit our Mosque at the Muslim Welfare House (03/12), an annual event that fosters friendship and open dialogue.
The Regional Final of the Jack Petchey “Speak Out” Challenge (05/12) at Highbury Fields.
The New Met for London community event held at the Soapbox, Old Street (06/12).

I continue to meet with various Islington education representatives in order to keep abreast of the difficulties (notably the falling rolls) currently faced by our Islington Schools, though many others outside of Islington are struggling similarly (07/12).
King Henry’s Walk Winter Garden event (09/12)
Light Project International AGM (09/12) Christ the King School Christmas assembly (13/12)
Islington North Labour Party’s Xmas social (13/12) at Emanuel Church in Hornsey Road and thank you to all who organised this lovely gathering.
Holloway Neighbourhood Group’s Xmas gathering (14/12)
An important gathering in support of a relighting of the Menorah candles in Islington Green (14/12) following their vandalising. My support for those affected by cladding continues and I am in touch with many affected by this scandal consistently (15/01) St Mellitus Christmas Nativity Play (19/12)
Islington Council’s Budget Briefing (20/12)
Brickworks as well as Andover foodbanks on numerous occasions
Walkabout in Archway (23/12)
Streets Kitchen’s Christmas Homeless lunch at Islington Town Hall (25/12)
Hornsey Lane Estate Centre Soup/Sandwiches (28/12)

In one or more of my chair/trustee/patron roles I attended: Elizabeth House trustees (22/11)
Welcomed the Nafsiyat new Chief Executive (24/11)
Hanley Crouch Trustees (30/11)

Beyond Islington

Gaza
I travelled to The Hague to support South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. The hearing was utterly devastating. South Africa spoke for millions around the world desperate for this massacre to end — and put the UK and US government to shame for their deplorable silence, cowardice, and complicity.

A few days later, I attended another demonstration in London. Many of us were mindful of the fact that Tom Hurndall had died on this day in 2004. Tom was shot by the IDF while trying to save a Palestinian child. 20 years later, we are still asking: when will the massacre of Palestinians end?

You can read more about my analysis of South Africa’s case here:
https://tribunemag.co.uk/2024/01/south-africas-case-was-a-display-of-international-solidarity-we-should-support-it

Healthcare
I was proud to join junior doctors on the picket line in Homerton (04/01). Junior doctors didn’t waste billions of taxpayers’ money on dodgy contracts. Junior doctors didn’t sell off our health service. Junior doctors didn’t cause record-high waiting lists. The Tories created this crisis. Solidarity with junior doctors striking to save our NHS.

Human rights

I spoke at a fantastic event (09/01) in support of Julian Assange, who is facing life in prison for exposing the truth about war crimes. Alongside me on the platform was Stella Assange, Richard Burgon, David Davis and many more. We will continue to speak out against his extradition and defend press freedom and to this end I also attended a well-attended event in Conway Hall (18/01).
A huge lobby in support of Julian is to be held outside the Royal Courts of Justice on February 20th-21st at the next hearing.

I was one of several guest speakers at the 35th Annual A Level Politics Student Conference in Westminster Central Hall, attended by 2,300 A level students from London/Home counties & beyond (04/12).

Sadly
Many of you will have known Lorraine Constantinou who died in November and whose funeral I attended on the 28th. Lorraine championed the needs of the Elthorne Estate residents, as well as acting as an Islington Councillor for 2 terms. She will be well remembered by the many who knew and / or worked with her.

I attended the funeral for Mohamed Abdi-Noor, who at just 21 years of age was the victim of knife crime (22/12). I have met too many mothers who have lost their children to knife crime, that have shaken our community. My thoughts continue to be with the families and friends of victims. I am grateful for the consistent collaboration between the Police, Islington Council’s Community Safety Team, The Ben Kinsella Trust, and several services who work to tackle knife crime across our borough. As always, I am proud of our community who rally together to support each other during these challenging times.

I was very sorry to learn of the death of Tony Lloyd MP. I was first elected to this House on the same day as Tony Lloyd in 1983. He was a brilliant friend and comrade who voted against the Iraq war, student tuition fees and the renewal of Trident, and he was a brilliant shadow Northern Ireland Secretary. He will be much missed by many good people all over this country.

You can see all my contributions in parliament as well as any public comment I issue on my social media:

Instagram (@jeremycorbyn)
Twitter (@jeremycorbyn)
Facebook (JeremyCorbynMP)

My regular constituency advice sessions continue and you can please ring my office for an appointment, or assistance: Additional telephone appointments with me can also be arranged where that it is sensible.

Tel: 0207 561 7488 (Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 12pm)

Write to: Rt Hon Jeremy Corbyn MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Email: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk

We are all in despair over the unfolding catastrophe in Israel and Gaza. Innocent people are dying, and none of our political leaders are prepared to do what’s right and call for an immediate ceasefire to stop any further loss of life. Please see my full statement, which addresses the unfolding horror with the gravity it deserves, further along in this report.

October is Black History Month. Thank you to Islington Council for putting on some fantastic events to celebrate and acknowledge the contribution of Black communities to this country. This month is also an opportunity to reflect on what we need to do moving forward. History is being made every day and should be taught all year round. We all need to learn about the history of empire in our ongoing struggle for racial justice.

I continue to stand up for your rights in Islington North, and this month marked the 50th anniversary of the Campaign for Labour Party Democracy to defend the rights of Labour Party members. As these rights come under unprecedented attack, we will continue to stand up for our movement and the values we share. You can read my article for Labour Outlook on party democracy here: Only a democratic party can provide the policies this country needs – Jeremy Corbyn (labouroutlook.org)

In Parliament and work with other MPs

Stand up to racism
I was distressed to learn of the visit of renowned Spanish far-right extremist to the UK. Isabel Peralta was permitted entry to speak at a far-right gathering in Preston. I wrote to the Home Secretary (25/09) to express my grave concerns and ask what actions she was taking to ensure entry is not granted to those seeking to facilitate, organise or attend fascist gatherings in this country.

Her visit more or less coincided with Suella Braverman’s statement that “multiculturalism has failed”. She should come to Islington North, where strength in diversity is our greatest success.

The Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly (Pace) held its 4th session (09-12/10) in Strasbourg as usual where I spoke up on a number of issues including equality and inclusion. In a debate on the far-right, I stood up for refugees who are being demonised across Europe.

There was much discussion on the South Caucasus region, when (in September) Azerbaijan regained control of all of Nagorno-Karabakh, which had been de facto controlled for 30 years by its majority ethnic Armenian population. Ethnic Armenian forces surrendered to Azerbaijan after one day of fighting, and nearly all of the region’s 120,000 ethnic Armenians fled.

I had discussions about Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu, a constituent and senior visiting fellow at the London School of Economics who is currently detained in Azerbaijan. Notably with Ambassador Sandy Moss, but also with other members who are equally concerned bout his situation. Dr Ibadoghlu has been an outspoken critic of the systemic corruption surrounding Azerbaijan’s ruling elite and is not in good health. I mentioned his case in my last report: At Risk Academics (12/09) At-risk Academics: UK Support – Hansard – UK Parliament

In making the most of my time in Strasbourg though it is a busy schedule anyway, I made time to attend a demonstration on Kurdish rights.

Additionally, the PACE Migration Committee sat in Reykjavik (20-22/09) and it was a very productive session with an important agenda during which I also pushed back on a significant amount of right wing hostility toward desperate migrants who are fleeing war.

October 4th was the anniversary of the Battle of Cable Street. 87 years ago, Jewish, and Irish communities came together to defeat Oswald Mosley and his fascists. It is a story that my parents’ generation taught me: never give in to the far-right.

Environment
I strongly oppose the UK government’s decision to approve Rosebank (27/10), which displays shameful disregard for future generations. Some want to “give investors certainty”, but how much certainty will investors have on a burning planet? Stop Rosebank and invest in renewables instead!

My most recent outputs, be it a parliamentary intervention or speech, or a comment outside the confines of parliament are all accessible on my social media which can be easily located on my website: Jeremy Corbyn MP

Islington

Health
For the first time in NHS history, junior doctors and consultants took joint strike action (20/09). As ever, they have my full support in their demands for pay restoration. Without doctors, we have no NHS. It’s that simple!

We will keep defending our NHS from privatisation and outsourcing. You can read an article I wrote for the Islington Tribune on the importance of a fully-public NHS here: We must stand up for a fully-public NHS’ | Islington Tribune

There is a new Maternity Ward at the Whittington Hospital (28/09) which I was delighted to visit. It is an incredible achievement of updating the space to bring it into line with the excellent service which new parents already were receiving at what I can only describe as a world class institution. It was a pleasure to meet with midwifes, management and gynaecologists working in the ward and hear first hand from the passionate individuals behind the service, who we are so lucky to have providing for us here in Islington.

Education
It was great to join university staff on strike at London Met for decent pay, job security & workplace equality (26/09). University management would rather see students suffer than co-operate with those who keep the institution running! Solidarity with UCU members everywhere!

My school visits continue, and it was a pleasure to attend Duncombe Primary School again this term (06/09). What a wonderful school this is, and an important hub in our community, serving some of the most disadvantaged communities in our borough.

Meeting with Year 5 and 6 Poole’s Park Primary School pupils (05/09) ahead of their upcoming School Council Elections was uplifting. We chatted about the role of an MP and how Parliament works. I enjoyed our discussion which also covered the meaning of democracy. I always enjoy answering the students’ questions and this was no exception. The environment was high on the agenda which is impressive, as was the government’s role in protecting it. Understandably, the students were proud to tell me about the award they had won for their community garden.

Housing
We had a fantastic meeting in Durham Road Community Centre (03/10) on the housing crisis. It should not be controversial to say that everybody deserves a decent, safe and comfortable place to live. We demand rent controls, a massive social housing programme and an end to the scourge of empty homes!

And, speaking of safety, I was extremely concerned to receive reports from residents at Pitt House that the sewage flood had reoccurred outside their building again. I visited the building once again (15/09) and witnessed the smell and the flood first hand. I am appalled that the residents living in this constituency are dealing with a recurrent biohazardous flood outside of their homes. I have relayed my position on this to all parties concerned and will be continuing to raise this matter until I see that the constituents are living in safe and hygienic conditions.

On 3/09 I attended the Somali Community safety meeting organised by Cllrs Bashir Ibrahim and John Woolf. There was a great turnout and all who attended actively engaged in a discussion about issues faced by the community. I look forward to working with the council and the Somali community to develop an inclusive strategy that addresses these issues.

Tufnell Park (ward) held a community event at the Hilldrop Centre (30/09) which brought people in the community together to catch the last of the summer weather. At a stall outside the Emirates Stadium (14/10) I chatted with locals and supporters. I really enjoy these informal gatherings which give me the chance to exchange views with those who pass by.

Thank You

I was humbled to have been made Honorary President of Islington Trades Union Council. Thank you for bravely defending the values of our movement: solidarity, equality and justice. We will continue to stand by workers in their struggle for a fairer society. Andy Bain and other members of the Trades Union Council did a huge amount of work to organise this event.

I visited the Shaolin Temple (30/09) to celebrate their 30th year as a Buddhist temple that provides a spiritual sanctuary and martial arts facilities to the community and beyond. I am impressed with the work they have done over the years, and I look forward to seeing the centre grow.

I continue to fulfil local commitments to Islington community organisations, either because I am a patron or trustee, or just
because I wish to support their good work, including, this month: Light Project International’s Trustee meeting, Finsbury Park mosque, and Hilldrop Community Centre.

As a trustee of Elizabeth House – with its brilliant director Nathalie Renaud and her team – I joined in their celebration of their 30th anniversary charity event (29/10).

Brickworks: Glody Lokole (originally a volunteer) worked at the centre for the past six years and I attended his farewell (06/10) where we all made it clear how much his contribution to the Brickworks community will be missed.

Sad News
We are very sad to learn that Jon Privett has died. His wonderful bookshop, Word On The Street, was there on Archway Market’s very first day in 2006. He also ran the floating bookshop, Word on the Water, in King’s Cross. His life’s work will carry on, but we will miss him greatly.

Beyond Islington

Israel and Palestine
We are all thinking of those in Israel and Palestine suffering unimaginable pain, trauma, and fear. The horrific attacks on civilians on the 7th October in Israel were deplorable. This cannot justify the indiscriminate killing of Palestinians, who are paying the price for a crime they did not commit. Half of Gaza’s population are children. Trapped in an open-air prison without food, water, gas, or electricity, they are watching their homes turn to rubble with nowhere to go. We should condemn the use of violence against all civilians, Israeli and Palestinian. And we must renew our calls for an immediate ceasefire to prevent any further loss of life. In times of war, we need more voices for peace — and the only way to achieve peace is to end the occupation. You can read my article for Tribune Magazine, on the urgent need for a ceasefire, here: Jeremy Corbyn: “I Condemn Violence Against All Civilians, Why Can’t Keir Starmer?” (tribunemag.co.uk)

I was proud to join thousands in London (14/10) to march for Palestine. We cannot stand by as Gaza is decimated. Today, we gathered in our thousands to mourn the loss of innocent lives, Israeli and Palestinian. We will keep marching until our political leaders wake up: ending the occupation is the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace.

I have also added my name to the EDM below tabled by Richard Burgon MP:
This House utterly condemns the massacre of Israeli civilians and taking of hostages by Hamas; agrees with the United Nations Secretary-General that these horrific acts do not justify responding with the collective punishment of the Palestinian people; expresses its deep alarm at the Israeli military bombardment and total siege of Gaza and the resulting deaths and suffering; believes that the urgent priority must be to stop the deaths and suffering of any more civilians in Gaza and Israel; welcomes the joint statement from 12 leading aid agencies, including Oxfam, Christian Aid, CAFOD, Medical Aid for Palestinians and Islamic Relief, calling for the Government to use its influence to help protect civilians, to ensure adherence to international humanitarian law and to guarantee civilians have access to critical life-saving humanitarian support; and to this end supports their call for the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary to urgently press all parties to agree to an immediate de-escalation and cessation of hostilities, to ensure the immediate, unconditional release of the Israeli hostages, to end the total siege of Gaza and allow for unfettered access of medical supplies, food, fuel electricity and water, to guarantee that international humanitarian law is upheld and that civilians are protected in accordance with those laws.

Press freedom
It was an honour to visit Julian Assange in prison (29/09). Julian is in prison for exposing the truth about war crimes – his incarceration is an attack on the freedom of journalists everywhere.

My 2023 Calendars with up-to-date information are freely available for anyone wishing to have one or more. Please telephone the local office if you’d like to receive some and this can be arranged. I’m keen for them to be widely distributed so that everyone knows how to contact me.

You can see all my contributions in parliament as well as any public comment I issue on my social media:

Instagram (@jeremycorbyn)
Twitter (@jeremycorbyn)
Facebook (JeremyCorbynMP)

My regular constituency advice sessions have resumed and please do ring my office if you wish to have an appointment, or for assistance. Additional telephone appointments with me can also be arranged where that it is sensible.

Tel: 0207 561 7488 (Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 12pm)

Write to: Rt Hon Jeremy Corbyn MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Email: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk

Over the summer, Parliament has spent much of its time in recess. I have taken this opportunity to spend even more time in our constituency and campaign on the issues that matter to those we represent.

On hearing news reports about reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), I contacted the Council asking about the implications for Islington’s schools, and am being kept updated. I am aware that RAAC is confirmed as present in two schools, however, this isn’t expected to interrupt teaching and the school is being supported by the DfE in carrying out remedial works. Please visit the council’s website (www.islington.gov.uk/children-and-families/schools/raac) for more information.

This month saw Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. To all Jewish communities in Islington and beyond, may this year bring you and your loved ones health, peace and joy. Shana Tova!

Like me, many of the football fans among you will have been sad to see the Lionesses narrowly lose the World Cup final. Sarina Wiegman’s team can be incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved. They have inspired the next generation!

In Parliament and work with other MPs

Environment

The past few months have seen utterly heart-breaking tragedies across the globe, including the earthquake in Morocco, the floods in Greece and Libya. The flooding – and indeed the fires across Europe, and the droughts in the Global South that our media largely ignores – are all proof of the accelerating climate emergency. We need systemic and urgent change to the global economy if we are to achieve climate justice and guarantee a habitable future for the next generation.

I was proud to join Chris Packham and several scientists at Parliament (05/09) to demand the end to new oil and gas.

I’m grateful to the Friends of Finsbury Park for meeting with me (18/09) to discuss ways to protect the wonderful ecology of the park. I am increasingly concerned over the maintenance and protection of the park, with more areas being used for festivals and paid events. On the same evening there was a huge turnout at Space4 for a discussion about the park which I attended, and I’m looking into further ways to protect the park and will update you in my next report.

Transport

Many in Islington have been campaigning to stop the government’s plans to close down our railway ticket offices. I was proud to join Islington Pensioners’ Forum outside Finsbury Park Station (17/08), and later members of the RMT in Westminster (31/08) to make our voices heard. The Conservatives know nothing about the real value of ticket offices — all they know is how to run our public services into the ground. There is no replacement for human interaction. I wrote directly to the Transport Minister as well as Govia Thameslink, the latter especially on Finsbury Park. Save our ticket offices!

I also addressed the Transport Minister about HS2 (18/09), after reports that the line to Manchester was due to be scrapped. I reminded him of the pain and disruption that had already been caused around Euston, and told him that we either need a high-speed network or nothing at all.

Poverty

I have been campaigning to scrap the 2-child benefits cap. A cruel and ineffective policy, the 2-child cap simply pushes families further into poverty, and sends an immoral message that the 3rd or 4th child somehow matters less than the 1st or 2nd. You can read more about my position on the 2-child-benefits cap on the Tribune: ‘We are told that lifting 250,000 children out of poverty isn’t a priority… what is?‘

Don’t let anyone tell you we can’t afford it. With the money raised from a 1-2% wealth tax on assets over £10 million, we could afford to scrap the 2-child benefit cap 17 times over. It is a national disgrace that in the sixth largest economy in the world, 4.2 million children are living in poverty. Another future is possible — we just need the courage and conviction to fight for it.

I raise these important points wherever I can and I did so on Robert Peston (20/07) and on LBC (06/09). During LBC’s show, I also made the case for a National Care Service, universal free school meals and free university tuition. You can watch the full show on YouTube: Iain Dale hosts Cross Question 05/09

I helped at a soup kitchen at the Old Fire Station (16/08). The soup was delicious, and I am pleased that volunteers are able to fill, albeit in a small way, the hungry gaps left by this government’s shortcomings.

Human rights

In a debate on “At-risk academics: UK support” (12/09), I raised the case of Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu in Azerbaijan, a distinguished academic and constituent at the London School of Economics, who was seized in Azerbaijan while visiting his mother, and is still imprisoned. The British Government must do all it can to ensure that he gets the medical support and attention he needs, as well as to ensure his right to pursue his profession in peace.

I joined an IPU (Interparliamentary Union) roundtable of visiting Uruguayan MPs (12/09).

In a debate on the “UK’s relations with Mexico” I raised the case of Claudia Uruchurtu (07/09) who was living in the UK with her sister and family before moving back home to Mexico. After demonstrating against corruption by local officials, she was arrested and imprisoned. She has never been seen again. I asked the government to help Claudia’s family get the truth, as well as the support they desperately need.

I praised the progress that is being made in human rights cases whilst also drawing attention to the cases of Miguel Orlando Munoz Guzman, an infantry lieutenant in the army who has been missing since 1993, and of course the 43 students who disappeared in 2014.

I remain a member of several Parliamentary Groups including the Parliamentary Socialist Campaign Group (SCG) and attended meetings with the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Western Sahara and the APPG Palestine, Human Rights, among others.

My most recent outputs, be it a parliamentary intervention or speech, or a comment outside the confines of parliament are all accessible on my social media which can be easily located on my website: jeremycorbyn.org.uk

Islington

I attended the summer session of the Parliamentary Assembly Council of Europe (19/06-24/06) in Strasbourg where I spoke out against the UK government’s treatment of refugees. I re-emphasised the importance of international conventions to which we have signed up. I also spoke in support of Julian Assange. Democracy is about holding power to account. That is what Julian Assange has done. I called for Julian’s immediate release, along with all other journalists around the world who have been imprisoned for exposing the truth.

Islington

The summer break typically includes many summer festivities and I attend as many as I can, mixing with students, residents, tenants, pensioners and more: Pooles Park summer fair (20/7) Room to Heal Summer Party (11/08) International Womens’ Celebration (12/08).

Islington Pensioners Forum held their Annual General Meeting (20/07) and I was honoured to speak at it. I remain a joint president of this wonderful and hard-working organisation.

The indefatigable Dot Gibson, famous for championing the cause of pensioners for some time now hosted a number of folk to a garden party (29/07) which was so very enjoyable. In attendance were Pensioner Forum folk, the Mayor, Clive Anderson.

August 28th was Annette Thomas’ 93rd birthday. Name a campaign, and Annette Thomas has been there, always on the right side of history. Happy birthday from all of us in Islington. Your dedication to peace & justice is an inspiration to us all.

Congratulations to Keith who, this month, celebrated 40 years of providing fresh fruit and veg’ to the people of Islington North on Seven Sisters Road. Thank you Keith!

In Islington North, it’s the quiet, unremarkable acts of kindness that sustain us all. I am proud to campaign alongside my constituents for a fairer society. With your support, that is what I’ll continue to do. Read why I love living in our constituency on the Evening Standard’s website: “Why I live in Finsbury Park: Jeremy Corbyn on the ever-changing north London area he’s lived in for 40 years”

Safety

I attended a memorial football match (21/08) in honour of Leonardo Reid, the 15-year-old who was tragically killed in June. A huge thanks to Ade and Jason from Elite Coaching Academy for organising the match, to all the young men who took part and to the community for attending. I am pleased that as a community we continue to show up for his family during this difficult time. Additionally, thank you to Arsenal FC for donating an official signed shirt that will be auctioned, with the proceeds going to Leo’s family.

I am sad to be writing about another tragic murder in our borough of 23 year-old Yahye Ahmed. My thoughts are with Yahye’s family, friends, and the wider community who have been affected by this devastating and senseless violence.

I have been contacted by numerous residents near Wray Crescent with concerns over an increase in anti-social behaviour, burglaries, and alleged drug use and drug dealing in the area. In response to these enquiries I called a meeting with the police, local councillors, and Islington Council’s safety officers (18/09) to pass on my concerns over what I’ve been hearing and ask what’s being done to address resident’s concerns. I will be writing to constituents who contacted me in more detail about the action that will be taken.

Similarly, I have been contacted over concerns of ASB on Blackstock Road and last week (15/09) I attended the bi-monthly Blackstock Road and Finsbury Park stakeholder meetings. I do have concerns about criminal activity in the evenings and asked the police to increase their presence during these hours. Lots more work in this area is needed and all involved remain dedicated and hard working.

Refugees

Thanks to all who attended last month’s meeting at St George’s church hall (27/07) in Islington to show solidarity with refugees and migrants. I’m proud to represent a community that stands up against hatred, supports each other, and celebrates the shared humanity that binds us all together.

Refugee rights was an issue I raised during a podcast with Middle Eastern Eye, which you can watch in full on YouTube: Jeremy
Corbyn | The future of Labour and the Left in Britain | The Big Picture S2EP8

Refugees are not enemies. They are not threats. They are not criminals. They are human beings. Together, we will keep campaigning for a kinder world.

Show Racism the Red Card remain active and I joined a campaign photoshoot with them (12/09) to show my ongoing support.

Housing

It was wonderful to join this year’s #StreetsFest in support of people facing homelessness (04/09). Thank you to Streets Kitchen, Arts & Homelessness International, Single Homeless Project, and many others for everything you do.

Ending homelessness is just one of the aims of ACORN, which set up a branch in Islington in August. As a community union, they bring together tenants, workers and residents to ensure housing justice for all. Sign up here: https://www.acorntheunion.org.uk/islington_acorn_group_launch

I’ve been meeting with local leaseholders about their difficulties with the law currently as it is. Most of you will know that I’ve spoken in parliament on this subject repeatedly and I am planning to do so again when my debate on the subject is granted when parliament returns from the conference recess.

I will speak at a local housing meeting (05/10) which is listed on Eventbrite for those of you who are free to come along:
Action on Housing! Tickets, Thu 5 Oct 2023 at 18:00 | Eventbrite

Beyond Islington

This month saw the 50th anniversary of the US-backed military coup in Chile, which overthrew the democratically-elected Allende government. Chileans never gave up — after 17 years of repression, democracy was restored. As Pablo Neruda said, “You can cut all the flowers but you can’t stop Spring from coming.”

You can read my article for Tribune online: Jeremy Corbyn: ‘Chile’s Coup Shows that Fascism Is Still a Threat’

There are so many lessons to learn from this coup that I travelled to a number of different places speaking at commemorative events (as well as media outlets) on the fragility of democracy and how to protect it.

Last month was the 78th anniversary of the nuclear attack on Hiroshima, and later Nagasaki. We held a moving event at Tavistock Square with members of CND. Security is not destroying your neighbour. Security is getting along with your neighbour. So let’s secure a future free of nuclear weapons and build a world of peace. You can read my piece for Tribune online: Jeremy Corbyn: ‘Humanity Cannot Survive a Nuclear War’

The West Belfast Festival – Feile an Phobail – deserves a mention here, since we have a large Irish community in Islington North. The festival began in the dark days of 1988 and has grown to be the largest community festival in Ireland. I was honoured to participate (03/08) in a ”Choices for Ireland” debate which I used to pay tribute to our own Irish community. It was a most inspirational visit if any of you are tempted.

Strikes

I continue to stand by striking workers campaigning for decent pay and conditions. It was great to join Unite members at St. Mungo’s (0108) to mark ten weeks of strike action. What an extraordinary display of collective resilience and solidarity.

Sadly

Many of you will have known Mary Ogbogoh (nee Roberts), who died aged 92 at the care home in Sidcup where she had been living in for some time. Mary was a long-standing member of Labour (though she told me she had been “thrown out several times”), CND, Anti-Apartheid and many anti-racist campaigns.

Sadly, Ann Clwyd MP died last month, and having worked with her for many years in the APPG Human Rights Group I spoke in a parliamentary debate in her honour (19/09): Ann Clwyd – Hansard – UK Parliament and plan to attend a memorial service for her in due course.

My 2023 Calendars with up-to-date information are freely available for anyone wishing to have one or more. Please telephone the local office if you’d like to receive some and this can be arranged. I’m keen for them to be widely distributed so that everyone knows how to contact me.

You can see all my contributions in parliament as well as any public comment I issue on my social media:

Instagram (@jeremycorbyn)
Twitter (@jeremycorbyn)
Facebook (JeremyCorbynMP)

My regular constituency advice sessions have resumed and please do ring my office if you wish to have an appointment, or for assistance. Additional telephone appointments with me can also be arranged where that it is sensible.

Tel: 0207 561 7488 (Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 12pm)

Write to: Rt Hon Jeremy Corbyn MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Email: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk

This month marked the 75th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush. The Windrush Generation built the NHS, enriched our culture, and changed Britain for the better. In return, hundreds were detained and deported. Survivors and descendants deserve more than gratitude. They deserve justice.

June was also Pride month – a chance to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, commemorate their struggle for equality, and expose the challenges that LGBTQ+ people continue to face. I wrote an article for Tribune to emphasise the overlap between the discrimination of LGBTQ+ people and the discrimination of refugees. Discrimination knows no borders, and neither should our solidarity. You can read the full article here: Jeremy Corbyn: LGBT Rights Are Refugee Rights – Let’s Stand Up for Both (tribunemag.co.uk)

I have made several media appearances this month on different platforms including LBC, from defending the rights of refugees, and Water, to Peston, condemning the two-child benefit cap.

In Parliament and work with other MPs

Illegal Migration Bill

I was pleased to see that the Court of Appeal ruled against the government’s Rwanda plan. The ruling found what many of us already knew: this policy is in breach of international law. Suella Braverman’s dream of sending asylum seekers to Rwanda may be dead, at least for now. However, we need to remain robust in our opposition to this government’s treatment of refugees.

I spoke in Parliament on several occasions to voice my opposition toward the Illegal Migration Bill (11/07, 17/07). I asked the government to consider why there are 70 million people around the world not in a place they can call their own home. The answer is: wars; human rights abuse; and environmental degradation. As I told the government, instead of putting up barbed wire everywhere, they should respect international law and do something to improve the living conditions of people in places they are trying to flee from. You can read my full contributions here: Illegal Migration Bill – Hansard – UK Parliament and here: Illegal Migration Bill – Hansard – UK Parliament

Human rights

This month, the government brought forward its Anti-boycott Bill (Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas matters) Bill). This legislation prevents UK public bodies from boycotting foreign countries and British companies that trade with them. It is a truly appalling piece of legislation and fits neatly into the bigger picture of anti-democratic legislation currently being promoted.

The Anti-boycott Bill is yet another attack on the civil liberties of people in this country. It is also, quite clearly, an infringement on the rights of those expressing their opposition to Israeli human rights violations. As I told parliament, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people is not a crime.

I subsequently spoke at a well-attended Justice for Palestine demonstration (05/07) calling for a halt to arms sales.

I voted against the bill – and you can read my full contribution here: Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) – Hansard – UK Parliament

On Housing, I spoke in the Freehold and Leasehold Reform debate (05/07). I gave testimonies from constituents who have suffered enormous stress and financial difficulty from the existing, broken system. The whole country is suffering from this, and we urgently need a serious process of leasehold reform that gives people some power over their own lives and in their own homes. You can read my full contribution here: Freehold and Leasehold Reform – Hansard – UK Parliament

I belong to several All Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) and this month I attended the Dalit APPG AGM (26/06) where I was appointed one of several Vice Chairs. The Mexico APPG of which I’m a member also held it’s AGM (05/07).

I remain an Honorary President of the Chagos Islands (BIOT) APPG, attending on 12/07. Olivier Bancoult who leads the Chagos Refugee Group from his base in Mauritius visited the UK (28/06) and we chatted in my office about the ongoing negotiations between the UK and Mauritius.

I joined with the National Education Union (NEU) and other MPs and activists to hand in a letter to Downing St in support of free school meals for every child in primary school (29/06).

I am also a member of several Parliamentary Groups including the Parliamentary Socialist Campaign Group (SCG). The SCG meets regularly in Parliament to discuss how best to promote a socialist agenda both inside and outside parliament.

You can read my full contributions in Parliament online, either on Hansard or at They Work For You, here: Jeremy Corbyn MP, Islington North – TheyWorkForYou

***

I attended the summer session of the Parliamentary Assembly Council of Europe (19/06-24/06) in Strasbourg where I spoke out against the UK government’s treatment of refugees. I re-emphasised the importance of international conventions to which we have signed up. I also spoke in support of Julian Assange. Democracy is about holding power to account. That is what Julian Assange has done. I called for Julian’s immediate release, along with all other journalists around the world who have been imprisoned for exposing the truth.

Islington

It was wonderful to join friends and neighbours in Highbury Fields (28/06) to celebrate Eid Al Adha. I thanked everybody for coming, and asked everyone to embrace the values of generosity, unity and compassion that define this blessed day. Eid Mubarak!

Highbury Fields Eid celebrations

There is often at least one or two days just before the official summer holidays that see me dashing about all over Islington. This year that day was Saturday July 1st.

I started the day with an LBC Interview on the water crisis. This was followed by an informal meet and greet with constituents over a pre-arranged street stall in Archway. Together, we’re fighting back against the cost-of-greed crisis. We’re demanding a real alternative: pay rises, public ownership, rent controls, and a fully funded NHS!

I then crossed Navigator Square and spoke at the unveiling of a memorial plaque to George Durack (01/07). George had been a stalwart of the community in many roles over the years, including as a local councillor. More recently he held the post of Chair of the Islington Pensioners Forum.

Other Islington events I attended on this busy Saturday included a Highbury Ward social, the annual Jazz on the Green in Newington Green at which I spoke and drew the raffle (Jam, what else) and the Day Mer Festival in Clissold Park, at which I also spoke.

School visits

With the school terms drawing to a close, I have been busy visiting as many schools as I can: Beacon High, Pooles Park, Grafton, Arts and Media, City of London Academy Highgate Hill, Duncombe, and Pakeman Primary School. As always, I enjoyed catching up with the head teachers and speaking with staff and students who always ask very interesting questions! Some schools held end of year assemblies, concerts or picnics and I attended those that I could.

This is also the time of year when I host students on work experience. Wherever possible these are local students. I ensure their time with me is divided between parliament and the constituency and from experience, they usually learn a reasonable amount, and at the same time enjoy themselves.

Strikes / workers’ rights

I was proud to join members of the RMT (06/07) who were on strike at Euston Station. They were there to oppose the government’s announcement to close up to 1,000 ticket offices and issue hundreds of redundancy notices. This decision will make rail travel less safe and accessible.

I was also proud to join our doctors on the Whittington picket line (13/07) who were starting the longest strike in NHS history. Our doctors have always been there for us. We should be there for them. Solidarity.

Doctors’ strike, Whittington Hospital

On the subject of the NHS, this month marked its 75th anniversary – and I enjoyed the Islington celebrations (07/07). The NHS was founded on the principle of free, public and universal healthcare. Let’s vow to end the corporate takeover and restore a fully funded, fully public NHS.

NHS 75, Islington Town Hall

Unison held an open day at Islington (LBI) Town Hall to mark its 30 years anniversary, at which I spoke (30/6).

A very deserving, farewell reception for Mark Serwotka, General Secretary of the PCS Union was attended by many of us in the House of Commons. For 23 years Mark has been excellent in this role, and he will be sorely missed.

Thames Water

Burst pipes. Soaring bills. Polluted rivers. A mountain of debt. Thames Water has ripped off residents in Islington and wreaked havoc across our borough. I have been clear – we need to stop bailing out failed private companies and bring them into public ownership instead. Water is a public good – it should be treated as such. My latest input on democratic public ownership are here: Corbyn: Put water services back in public hands | Islington Tribune

On a local level, I am very grateful to all Thames Water staff and the helpful way the far too regular, repair works are carried out and the nice interaction between the workers and local community. My concerns about the frequent works to Seven Sister’s Road triggered a meeting, and a very productive conversation with officers from Thames Water (30/06).

I was delighted to attend a plaque unveiling for Michael Collins (14/07). Collins was an Irish Republican leader who campaigned for Irish independence in the early 20th century. The plaque was unveiled in Barnsbury Street, at the site of the former Barnsbury Hall, where Collins was initiated into the Irish Republican Brotherhood, in 1909. The event was attended by politicians from both London and Ireland and was a chance for us to celebrate the enormous contributions of the local Irish community to our borough.

I maintain regular contact with most local groups and organisations, and especially those of which I am either a patron or a trustee. This month I met with the Light Project International, Elizabeth House, Hanley Crouch Trustees. Meanwhile, I managed to pop into the Hilldrop Community Centre performance of Midsummer Nights’ Dream (16/07).

I routinely meet with Council Leader Kaya Comer-Schwartz. This month I also had a final chat and offered my thanks to Islington’s outgoing Chief Executive, Linzi Roberts-Egan. Linzi is moving on from Islington in the not-too-distant future but her dedication to the borough will not be forgotten and was to be seen at its best throughout the pandemic. Our heartfelt thanks go to Linzi for her incredible contribution to Islington.

Beyond Islington

It was inspiring to be alongside so many wonderful people at the Durham Miners’ Gala (07/07). It was a day of unity, renewal and solidarity. Whatever is thrown at us, we remain full of hope for a brighter future!

Durham Miners’ Gala

I spoke at the Tennis, Apartheid and Social Justice book launch, at SOAS (26/06). Years ago, Haringey and Islington in particular hosted a large number of South African exiles who were immensely active in all aspects of community life. I was a close friend of the Bhanabhi family, living in Hornsey, and active alongside me in Labour activities. They taught me a great deal about Apartheid, South Africa. When I visited Johannesburg after the release of Mandela, I stayed at their house and visited with many trade unionists and others. I will forever salute the bravery of all the communities in South Africa and the individuals who suffered so much in the work they did to abolish apartheid.

I am fortunate enough to be invited to participate in a myriad of cultural and historical events on a regular basis, though Islington remains top priority. That said, the Durham Miners Gala (mentioned earlier) and the Bradford Literature Festival (02/07), were certainly high points for me in the past few weeks. 700 attended an on-stage interview (“In conversation”: Reflections on Geneva Exchange) with Emeritus Professor Paul Rogers at St George’s Hall.

Sadly

I was deeply saddened by the news that two people died, and another was injured, in an appalling attack in Archway (30/06). I attended the scene and received updates by the police. I met the families and friends of the deceased – our deepest condolences go to them at this incredibly difficult time. Thank you to Islington Council and Police for their swift response in reassuring the community of their safety and for the continued support and engagement with the community. Too many young people are losing their lives and the knife crime epidemic must be addressed as a national emergency.

Charlotte (Lottie) Moore was given a deserving send off and along with so many others I attended her funeral (04/07). Many people have since mentioned to me Lottie’s significant contribution to the community, be it her commitment to local politics, notably the Women’s Branch, to cultural development (as a singer and actor), to the Light Project Homework Club and many more. This talented and generous woman will be sorely missed by all of us.

I managed an online visit to the memorial service for Annabelle Sreberney (09/07). Many of you will have known Annabelle, who followed in the family tradition (her mother was the wonderful and iconic Margot Sreberney) of being very active in all things local, and a hardy socialist.

You can see all my contributions in parliament as well as any public comment I issue on my social media:

Instagram (@jeremycorbyn)
Twitter (@jeremycorbyn)
Facebook (JeremyCorbynMP)

My regular constituency advice sessions have resumed and please do ring my office if you wish to have an appointment, or for assistance: Additional telephone appointments with me can also be arranged where that it is sensible.

Tel: 0207 561 7488 (Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am – 12pm)

Write to: Rt Hon Jeremy Corbyn MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Email: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk