Search results for: “israel”

In Parliament and work with other MPs

Since my last newsletter (19 April), I have divided my time between Parliament, Islington North and the Council of Europe.

The government is accelerating its attack on civil, democratic and human rights. On Tuesday evening, I supported efforts to repeal the Public Order Act. When our democracy is under attack, it’s up to the labour movement to fight back. That means defending our fundamental right to protest. If you believe in women’s suffrage, you believe in the right to protest. If you oppose apartheid, you believe in the right to protest. If you think our children deserve a liveable future, you believe in the right to protest. We must defend our freedoms and repeal the Public Order Act now!

On top of the right to protest, the government continues its attack on the right to asylum. This is particularly concerning in light of the recent conflict in Sudan. There are still no safe and legal routes to the UK for people fleeing the conflict. This is a shameful dereliction of duty by a cruel and callous government.

Let’s hold out the hand of friendship to refugees, wherever they come from.

The third democratic right is the right to vote. This month saw the implementation of the government’s draconian voter ID legislation. This is not about voter fraud. It’s about voter suppression. You can read an article I wrote for Islington Tribune about it here: ‘Voter ID is not about fraud – it’s about voter suppression’ | Islington Tribune

The month of May also marked World Press Freedom Day (03/05), on which we call for the immediate release of all imprisoned journalists, and significantly, Julian Assange, who has spent 4 years in a maximum security prison. We cannot stand by and let governments silence those who seek to expose the truth. Let’s defend free and democratic journalism everywhere.

I tabled this parliamentary motion (1126) to mark the occasion:

World Press Freedom Day and Julian Assange: That this House appreciates that World Press Freedom Day is intended to honour the excellent work and risks taken by journalists throughout the world; notes that one internationally renowned journalist has completed four years in a maximum security prison in this country; recognises that Julian Assange faces extradition to the USA under the Espionage Act for revealing uncomfortable truths such as the publication of material relating to state actions in Iraq and Afghanistan; further notes that such treatment of a journalist jeopardises the freedom of all journalists to go about their work unimpeded by state interference and criminalises the invaluable journalism that is in the public interest; and calls on the Home Secretary to reject extradition.

In Parliament and work with other MPs

As I wrote in my January newsletter, our dear friend and comrade Alice Mahon passed away over Christmas from mesothelioma. This month, I was able to pay tribute to her in a Debate on Asbestos in Workplaces (19/04), noting the leading role she played campaigning for health, safety and welfare at work. I then called for…

“a full audit of all the asbestos dangers in the country, including the tips and so on that we have mentioned. We need a programme of containment and labelling of it everywhere before it is removed, and we need a programme of removal. We should not be the worst country in Europe, or indeed in most of the world, on the question of asbestos safety; we ought to be the best.”

This month marked the one-year anniversary of the murder of Shireen Abu Akleh, shot by Israeli forces in broad daylight on May 11th. I paid tribute to her during a debate on Human Rights Protections of Palestinians (20/04).

“The loss of Shireen Abu Akleh is deeply felt by Palestinians all over the world. She was the iconic voice of reporting on behalf of al-Jazeera from Palestine, and she was the trusted voice that many Palestinians woke up to every day, to find out what was happening in their land.”

I then went on to speak out against the occupation more broadly, and to call for a free and independent Palestine.

“Surely to goodness, the Palestinian people have suffered enough. The least we can do as a country is recognise the state of Palestine—no qualifications—to show that we are serious in speaking up against the abuse of human rights and for an end to the siege of Gaza.”

The Chagos Islands APPG (17/05) is undoubtedly one, if not the, most productive and well run group in Parliament in my view. David Snoxell has acted as its indefatigable coordinator since approximately 2008 and works very hard in ensuring the group continues to thrive, and make progress. He brings an expertise to the subject which is second to none.

Separately, Olivier Bancoult, Chairman of the Chagos Refugees Group wrote a very interesting article which can be found here: Olivier Bancoult: The US and UK stole the Chagos islands 50 years ago. We need them back | openDemocracy

I am of course 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.

The Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) held its spring session in Strasbourg in the week of 24th April, followed by a one day special Committee sitting (11/05). We did a great deal of work on immigration, the committee I sit on. Anything substantive that happened there can be found on the PACE website: Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (coe.int) and much was said about this government’s approach to immigration and the Illegal Migration Bill. I had intended giving a speech but time there is extremely competitive, and went against me, so it is also available on the website.

As part of my work on the committee, along with a colleague and MP from France I’ve managed to ensure there is a Pace delegation going to the Calais refugee camps in the not too distant future, which I am very pleased about.

Benny Wanda came to meet me at my constituency office to discuss the West Papua situation (05/05). I have been active in this cause for most of my political life and was pleased to speak about it to camera for their campaign.

I met up with Samira Mahmoud Haji, a visiting Somali senator at Parliament (19/04) and had a most informative chat about the politics of the region.

I also joined (Baroness) Christine Blower over coffee for a conversation with the Nicaraguan Education Minister (10/05).

I met an Interparliamentary Union of MPs delegation from the Dominican Republic (17/05). The IPU do exemplary work in ensuring these visits are informative and productive for both visitors and the visited.

Remember, you can locate parliamentary work such as those (oral questions) on Chagos and the Sudan (02/05) and the Arrest of peaceful Protesters (09/05) on my website and/or social media.

Islington

Workers across Islington continue to take strike action to protect their pay, save their profession and defend our public services. Most recently, teachers went on strike (27/04) to save the future of education. Solidarity with all workers fighting for what’s theirs!

The Royal College of Paediatrician’s held a picket line (17/05) and I was pleased to support the cause of these very hard working medics.

We held another fantastic street stall (13/05), this time on Blackstock Road, listening to people’s concerns and showing support for one another. I even had time to renew my library card!

Blackstock Road

Sunnyside Community Gardens is going strong and I visited (21/04) for a fundraiser launch toward building a new, fully accessible garden room. The volunteers I met spoke about what a nurturing and positive community space this is for them. The current building at Sunnyside is not fit for purpose, so I would encourage anyone who can to donate something to this project, which will continue to develop and expand their brilliant work. You can donate through the GoFundMe page here.

Sunnyside Gardens

I had a very positive conversation with Councillor John Woolf, Executive Member for Community Safety and Martijn Cooijmans, Director of Climate Change and Transport at Islington Council (21/04) about traffic measures on Seven Sisters and Blackstock Roads. We spoke especially about the bottleneck that forms under the bridge on Seven Sisters Road, and the traffic caused by the gyratory on Rock Street. I have also expressed my concern that some cyclists using the cycle path on Seven Sisters Road then jump onto the pavement, which is very dangerous for pedestrians. The council are already considering solutions to these matters which is terrific.

I was honoured to be the guest speaker at Islington’s Refugee and Migrant Forum (04/05). I am full of admiration for the different organisations and individuals who make up the forum; for the resounding love and acceptance they show to the most desperate in our world. To repeat my words on the day, at a moment when the rhetoric around migrants and refugees is frighteningly hateful, it is more vital than ever that we all continue to offer their solidarity to those seeking refuge in our country.

I also attended a fundraiser hosted by Kurdish And Middle Eastern Women’s Organisation (KMEWO) and IMECE Women’s Centre at Manor Gardens Centre (04/05), raising money for those effected by Turkey and Syria’s most recent earthquake. The Kurdish and Turkish food on offer was wonderful, and the cause a very worthy one. These wonderful women do essential work supporting the women and girls of our community and I’m pleased to support them in this.

As a Trustee of Hanley Crouch I attended their trustees meeting (27/04).

I returned early (from Paris/Migration Committee) in order to attend Gary Heather’s inauguration as our Mayor (11/05). Unsurprisingly, the event was well attended and I trust Gary will not waste a minute in his new role.

Beyond Islington

I had a wonderful day in Hastings (29/04) to celebrate May Day weekend! The loudest chant was in support of refugees — workers will not be divided in the struggle for a better world.

May Day – Hastings

I was proud to join a demonstration (13/05) in London to mark the 75th anniversary of the Nakba, when 75 years ago, over 750,000 Palestinians were violently expelled from their homes by Israeli forces. The Nakba did not end in 1948 — Palestinians continue to resist a system of colonial dispossession and apartheid. Today, we renew our calls for a free and independent Palestine.

I was also a guest of the Palestinian Ambassador, Husam Zumlot, at Central Westminster Hall (12/05) for a Nakba commemoration, inspired by the UN’s recognition of the gravity of the Nakba, last year adopting Resolution A/77/L.24 to mark Nakba Day.

I have spoken at a number of events, either online or in person, on subjects and campaigns including: – The history of socialist & anti-imperialist thought (with Barnaby Raine, Colombia University, 08/05) – Annual conference of “Cooperation for Peace” – Reiner Braun (28/04) – Budapest/European Forum: An international event to commemorate the end of the Second World War and to give impetus to the fight against the resurgent Nazism and fascism in Europe (07/05) – Liberation on Iran

Sadly

Many who are reading this report will have known Pippa Cosin – beloved wife of Cllr Satnam Gill. Our deepest condolences go to Satnam at this very sad time and our thoughts are with the whole family.

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 E: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk

This April saw Passover, Ramadan and Easter overlap, which happens just three times each century. This rare occasion was a time for all communities to come together and make a common call for compassion, inclusion and peace. However you celebrated, I hope all of you managed to find some time to enjoy a restful break.

Before Parliament broke for recess, the Chancellor presented his budget to Parliament. His economic statement may now be a month old, but it remains as inadequate as ever to the crises facing us all. I will continue to oppose the government’s programme of poverty, division of inequality. And I will continue to fight for a real alternative on behalf of the people of Islington North.

 In Parliament and work with other MPs

MPs debated the Chancellor’s budget on the 21st of March. As I told Parliament:

“The number of children in food poverty in this country has doubled in the past year to 4 million; the NHS is on its knees; and the richest 1% are taking home more than ever, and own 230 times the wealth of the poorest 10% in our society. Does this Budget do anything to deal with those issues? I think everyone knows the answer to that.”

I then presented my own proposals for an alternative budget, one that tackle the social, economic and climate crises by redistributing wealth and power. I emphasised five key points: A Decent Pay Rise for All; Democratic Public Ownership; A Wealth Tax to Save our NHS; Housing for the Many; Refugees Welcome. I elaborated on these 5 points in an article for the Morning Star, which you can read here: ‘Let’s build our radical alternative vision for our country’ | Morning Star (morningstaronline.co.uk)

Over the years, I have received many, many emails about trophy hunting. I know this is an issue that is as important to constituents as it is to me. I am totally against trophy hunting of all kinds, and there’s been good news on this front. Parliament has passed the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill (15/03). In essence, this bill bans British hunters from bringing body part ‘trophies’ of endangered and vulnerable animals into Great Britain. It’s not often that a Private Members Bill gets very far, so this is excellent news. I am pleased though not surprised that so many Islington North residents back the Bill. I was proud to contribute to the debate:

“I congratulate the hon. Gentleman on the work he has done to get the Bill thus far and I hope it goes through today. Perhaps he will join the rest of us in congratulating those many campaigners all around the country who have worked so hard to draw attention to the issue of trophy hunting and ensure that we have such a good attendance here today. That in itself becomes an education to people, in understanding that we can play our part in the conservation of beautiful and endangered species by passing this Bill today.”

I am sure many of you were appalled by the recent report into the Metropolitan Police, published by Baroness Casey. The report found evidence of institutional racism, homophobia and misogyny within the London Met. Following a statement by the Home Secretary (21/03), I emphasised one aspect of the report that I believed was not receiving sufficient attention: the disproportionate use of stop-and-search on Black Londoners:

“Baroness Casey’s report makes it very clear that what campaigners have been saying for years is absolutely true: black Londoners are disproportionately likely to be stopped and searched by the Metropolitan police. It also calls for fundamental change in that whole policy. Will the Home Secretary explain how the Public Order Bill, which gives the police increased powers of stop and search during protests or demonstrations, fits with the recommendations made by Baroness Casey? Will she also suspend the operation of that section of the Public Order Bill until such time as the police have been able to reform their ways on the disproportionate stopping and searching of black Londoners?”

YoungMinds hosted an event in Parliament (20/03) which a member of my team attended on my behalf. The event supported the #EndTheWait campaign for young people suffering with mental health needs; an extremely worthy cause.

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

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

Islington

On the same day that Jeremy Hunt announced his budget (15/03), 700,000 workers went on strike for decent pay. I stood with teachers on the picket line at City of London Academy (COLA) Highgate Hill, before joining NHS workers, civil servants, underground drivers and Amazon workers who had coalesced on Trafalgar Square to demand a fairer future. A victory for striking workers will be a victory for us all.

Thank you to the organisers of a wonderful event at Navigator Square (22/03), where a new mosaic was unveiled to celebrate the Irish community in Islington. We must not forget that Britain was built on Irish labour — Navigator Square is itself named after Irish “navigators” who created this country’s canals, roads & railways.

Navigator Square (22/03)

I was delighted to hold another Street Stopover (04/04), this time on Holloway Road. This was another opportunity to hear constituents’ concerns, and offer guidance where possible. Together, we will build a more equal, sustainable and caring society.

I continue with my school visits whenever I can and am particularly concerned about the future of Pooles Park Primary School and will keep abreast of any developments affecting it.

Regular meetings with the Council Leader, Kaya Comer Schwartz, ensure I’m kept abreast of the most important issues in the borough.

I’ve also maintained an active interest in issues affecting Seven Sisters Road, Traders and Local Residents such as the impacts of the cycle lines and Transport for London’s ability to address them, notably in the most problematic spots.

I had the pleasure of speaking at the Islington BAMER Advice Alliance AGM, (16/03) at Resource for London, Holloway Road. I feel closely connected to the local people and communities who use the centre and I enjoyed addressing and mingling with them. I will continue to be proactive in standing up for their rights and for justice against any potentially negative legislation that would impact upon them.

It was a pleasure to attend the Holloway Mosque and speak with the local Muslim Community during their holy time of Ramadan (14/04). I recalled when the mosque first opened, and how amazing it is to see the way it grew from its humble starting point to a vital centre of support for the area. I spoke of how the mosque is a testament to the power of community, and how I have always greatly admired the way in which those within it offer welcoming kindness to anyone in need who enter their doors.

It was wonderful to join London’s Kurdish community at Islington Town Hall (20/03) to celebrate Newroz. We dedicated this year’s event to victims of the earthquake, and renewed our solidarity with Kurds everywhere standing up for self-determination, democracy and freedom.

HEALTH

I joined striking junior doctors outside the Whittington (14/04), who were taking part in a 4-day strike for pay restoration. Some say that their demands are unaffordable. But when the top 1% own 230 times more wealth than those in the bottom 10%, keeping workers poor is a

political choice. Solidarity with all those fighting back!

Whittington Hospital (14/04)

I attended a meeting with Jinjer Kondola (Chief Executive), Andrew Wright (Director of Public Affairs) and Peter Molyneux (Interim-Chair) to discuss mental health services being provided by Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust (24/03). I am keen to support the Trust in improving its access to mental health support for the most vulnerable in the borough and the need to enhance communication between the NHS, Local Authority, and Police to help deliver these services to those who need it. I suggested the Trust should engage with community-based organisations, faith forums and local businesses to cast a wider net in order to bring these services to the most vulnerable.

ENVIRONMENT

I am sure many of you will share my disgust at the damage caused to Finsbury Park by the Tough Mudder events (15/04). As a long-standing member of Friends of Finsbury Park, I am appalled by the way our local park has been treated. Green spaces should be preserved for public use, not vandalised for commercial gain. I wrote to Haringey Council to ask for assurance that these users will never come back to our park and that they will repair all of the damage caused.

Damage caused to Finsbury Park

HOUSING

I met with Majida and Selma (Jannaty Women’s Social Society) and Tricia Blake (Diva Choice) to discuss their concerns regarding the rent increase and management of the affordable workspace on Durham Road (14/03). I have raised these concerns with the Executive Member for Inclusive Economy and Jobs, and urged Islington Council to keep in mind their original commitment to create spaces that are genuinely accessible and affordable to local businesses and organisations.

Some constituents came to Parliament for a lobby (21/03) organised by the Renters Reform Coalition Day of Action, attended by around 300 people from across the country. The goal of the Renters’ Reform Coalition is to ensure the Government’s promised Renters Reform Bill becomes law. The Government has said that the bill will be published “before the Autumn” but that remains to be seen (The White paper was published in June 2022).

HUMAN RIGHTS

Constituents also visited Parliament for the Right to Boycott Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) lobby day (22/03). Palestinian suffering must be brought to a peaceful end – until it does their cause will remain high on my agenda. Current Israeli government actions are creating considerable internal friction, which can only exacerbate an already precarious situation, and erode further the human rights of so many.

ARTS

Change Act are a wonderful new organisation set up in Islington working with people who have disabilities using the teachings of Theatre of the Oppressed. The cast are all people with lived experience of disabilities which they draw upon to create a powerful performance. It was an inspiring example of community coming together for change (11/04).

I was pleased to accept an invitation to a performance of “Bad Roads” at Fourth Monkey Actor Training Company, Seven Sisters Road (16/03). It was a real pleasure to support this local group, and to chat with staff, and enjoy the student performance of Bad Roads.

I want to thank everybody for the kind messages of support and solidarity over the past month. There is huge demand for a politics of redistribution, solidarity & hope. As I wrote in a piece for Islington Tribune here (Jeremy Corbyn: Labour should be defending democracy, not debasing it | Islington Tribune), I have spent my life fighting for a fairer society on behalf of the people of Islington North. I have no intention of stopping now.

Beyond Islington

I was proud to join an anti-racist demonstration outside Parliament (18/03) to oppose the government’s barbaric asylum ban. The asylum seekers of today are our doctors, carers, teachers, neighbours and friends of tomorrow. We must stand up for our shared humanity, and say loudly and clearly: refugees are welcome here.

Anti-racist demonstration, Parliament

March saw the 20th anniversary of the invasion of Iraq. To this day, we remember the millions killed, injured & displaced in a war built on lies. Those of us who opposed the war were vilified, patronised and ignored. But we will never stop campaigning for a more peaceful world. I attended an event, organised by Stop The War, to mark the anniversary of the invasion, and renew our commitment to peace. You can read a piece I wrote for Labour Outlook on the 20-year anniversary here: Jeremy Corbyn MP – 20 years on from Iraq, we must strive to build a more peaceful world (labouroutlook.org)

I have been working closely with Olivia Blake MP and Rebecca Long-Bailey MP to support Elizabeth Uruchurtu, whose sister Claudia Uruchurtu, went missing in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico in March 2021.

Claudia was a civil activist who documented and raised concerns about the mismanagement of public funds and corruption within the Local Authority in the town of Nochixtlan. A memorial service in Sheffield (15/04) was held to mark two years since her disappearance.

Unsurprisingly, progress in bringing justice to the family has not been fast enough.

I met with the mother (Maria) and sister (Maria) of a 25 yr old man who in 1993 was serving in the Mexican army in Chihuahua, Mexico, when he disappeared on (May 8). It is thought that Muñoz Guzmán was the subject of an enforced disappearance by members of the Mexican Army. Very limited progress has been made in the 30 years since his disappearance. The family were visiting the UK and have never lost hope that justice will come their way.

The hard work put in by the above families in their respective cases is admirable; their trauma immeasurable and I will continue to support them in their quest for justice.

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

The killing of Tom Hurndall in Gaza was extra-judicial and a tragic event, and should always be remembered.

I fully and unreservedly condemned that shooting at the time.

I have recently signed EDM 1064, and we can only keep speaking out against these kinds of criminal acts, which sadly continue to this day.  This year alone, 98 Palestinians have been killed, including 17 children, and over 2,500 have been seriously injured.

Tom is an eternal symbol of bravery, solidarity and humanity.  My thoughts are with his family and friends, and all those still striving for liberation.

Additionally, on the broader subject of Palestine and Israel, there were two debates in April 2023:

One is here:  Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territories – Hansard – UK Parliament

The one I managed to speak in is here:  Human Rights Protections: Palestinians – Hansard – UK Parliament

In my last report, I lamented the carousel of Conservative chaos that had dominated so much of our news and lives. The day after the report was published, Liz Truss resigned. Following the coronation of Rishi Sunak, the new Prime Minister told us to prepare for difficult decisions ahead. The Financial Statement will be due 17/11. I will continue to oppose austerity and fight for the only fair and workable solution to the cost-of-living crisis: a redistribution of wealth and power.

I’m delighted to share some good news: following the Boundary Commission’s final consultation, there will be no changes to the constituency boundaries of Islington North. Thank you enormously to everyone who registered their objections. I do believe they must have tipped the balance.

In Parliament and work with other MPs

In politics and parliament November continued in much the same way as it ended in October, with my work defending the rights of asylum seekers and refugees. Following Suella Braverman’s re-appointment, just six days after she resigned from the previous government, the home secretary accelerated her assault on the most vulnerable in society.

In response to the firebombing of an asylum processing centre in Dover, and reports of appalling conditions at Manston “processing” centre, the home secretary invoked dangerous language to imply the UK was facing an “invasion” on our southern coast. Instead of dehumanising desperate people, we must expand safe routes and end the hostile environment.

In response to a statement made by the Minister for Immigration this month, I made the following contribution:

“Will the Minister confirm that to seek asylum is a perfectly legal thing within international law and, therefore, UK law and that loose use of the words “illegal asylum seekers” is dangerous for the individuals concerned?

Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the Council of Europe report on pushbacks across Europe of people seeking a place of safety in a number of countries, including this one? They have been pushed back and left in places of enormous danger. Will he confirm that Britain will not be involved in sea-bound pushbacks towards France that leave people in enormous danger? Instead, will he recognise the humanitarian needs of, frankly, deeply desperate people to whom we should
be holding out the hand of friendship, not condemnation?”

Care4Calais launched their report in parliament (16/11). This organisation does brilliant work on the ground on behalf of refugees in transit and I plan to visit the area with several other parliamentary colleagues as soon as we can arrange it.

This month, Rishi Sunak was dragged kicking and screaming to COP27. I have been very clear: as our planet stands at a tipping point, COP27 must be the moment we support the poorest for climate loss and damage, and deliver systemic change on a global scale. In Parliament, I asked the Prime Minister if he…

“would confirm what the previous Prime Minister told this House, which is that no British bank, financial institution or company will henceforth be allowed to invest in fossil fuel extraction anywhere in the world as part of our contribution to bringing about net zero globally?”

I also called for a National Care Service. After being subjected to unparliamentary language in the House of Commons, which amounted to a mental health slur against those suffering from dementia and senility, I emphasised the gravity and seriousness of the social care crisis. After years of austerity and privatisation, our care sector is in pieces. It’s time we built a publicly-funded care service, free at the point of use for all those who need it. You can read more about my argument, in a piece I wrote for Tribune last week, here: Dementia is No Joke – We Need a National Care Service.

The All Party Parliamentary Human Rights Group (PHRG) hosted Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights Defenders at a meeting in parliament I attended. PHRG meetings are, it has to be said, almost always especially good value. The coordinator is extremely experienced and ensures that the subject matter is important, the speaker/s informative, and the attendance good. This meeting was no exception.

In late October, in the company of Peace Brigades International I met with a prominent Mexican human rights defender who has spent the last 30 years defending indigenous communities in the Sierra Tarahumara, Chihuahua.

The Council for Arab British Understanding (CAABU) brought 3 expert human rights defenders over from Israel and Palestine to London and I had the pleasure of meeting them in parliament, B’Tselem among them. It is one of the six Palestinian human rights organisations recently raided by the Israeli authorities. Also in attendance were representatives from the leading Palestinian human rights organisation, Al Haq, and the Bedouin community who face persistent forced evictions and home demolitions. They pressed for respect for human rights across Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, in the face of a system of institutionalised discrimination and persistent violations by the Israeli authorities.

Brazil looms large on the political scene this month with President Lula’s narrow victory. An informal celebration held at the Bedford Tavern (12/11) was a good occasion for a microcosm of his UK supporters to gather together. I was privileged to act as an election observer at this election and could not be more pleased with the result. I wrote about that visit in a number of media outlets including the Independent and Tribune.

After many years of hard work, a significant statement was put out by the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) recently relating to the Chagos Islands (04/11). I referred to it in the EDM I tabled:

EDM 565 British Indian Ocean Territory sovereignty negotiations:

That this House congratulates His Majesty’s Government on its decision to begin negotiations with Mauritius concerning sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago (British Indian Ocean Territory) to seek agreement to resolve all outstanding issues in accordance with international law including those relating to the former inhabitants; recognises that this is a significant reversal of a long standing policy; acknowledges the tireless campaigning by the Chagos Islands (BIOT) APPG and its Coordinator since 2008, the work of the Chagos Refugees Group and other Chagossian organisations, and the roles played by lawyers, the English and International courts; looks forward to the day when Chagossians who wish to return to the islands are permitted to do so.

I attended a reception in the Grand Committee room in parliament to mark the 62nd anniversary of Cyprus’ Independence (25/10). In my speech I raised the need for unilateral access and for the reunification of the island.

I’d like to congratulate all those participating in UK Parliament Week. This is an opportunity to empower young people to fight for the issues and campaigns that matter to them.

I remain a member of several All Party Parliamentary Groups and 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 within and without parliament.

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

November is Islamophobia Awareness month

I was pleased to say a few words at Finsbury Park Mosque (11/11) on the importance of Islamophobia Awareness Month. Racism is not acceptable in any form whatsoever. I will never tire in fighting for a society of inclusion, love and equality.

Thousands gathered in London to attend the People’s Assembly Rally (05/11), joined by a plethora of social movements, trade unions and community groups. I argued that inflation was not being caused by wage rises, but by egregious profiteering, and that the solution to the cost-of-living crisis was not to slash public spending, but to bring energy companies into democratic public ownership.

The Assisted Dying campaign often holds meetings in parliament and if I am unable to attend I try to ensure one of my team stands in as was the case this week (15/11). These are important discussions, particularly in light of questionable responses from certain health professionals and police. There is a distinct lack of clarity over existing laws, especially in relation to the impact of individuals and their loved ones who choose to travel for this option. My reservations toward “assisting dying” lie in a wider opposition to our inadequate social care system, which may create unequal pressures to opt into an assisted dying programme, in addition to pressures an individual may feel (especially where there is an inheritance issue) from those around them. However, I remain open to these discussions, and committed to a wider goal of ensuring everyone can have the healthcare they need, and die in dignity.

October was Black History month as you know, and I continued to attend relevant events in the latter half of October (this report routinely commencing mid month as it does).

Hornsey Lane Community Centre (22/11) held a terrific event for Black History Month. We enjoyed chats and reminisced about a generation that has given us all so much. We explored the work of famous Caribbean writers and poets such as Andrew Salkey, Kamau Braithwaite and Derek Walcott.

A celebration of Black History was also hosted by Cllr Michelline Ngongo at the Light Project Pro International (LPPI) (22/11). The event was supported by Cally Cross, and featured Islington based entrepreneurs’ stalls and pop-up shops. It was a celebration of local, black-led businesses and entrepreneurs such as New Beacon Books, Shae Love, Roxy’s of London, and Grime King. We enjoyed delightful performances from LPPI’s supplementary school children, local performer Fatima and dancer Onyeka of Afrobics.

I attended a joint NEU, ASCL Land NAHT zoom Meeting (16/11) to discuss the crisis our schools will face next year, if the government’s new proposed budget cuts which equate to £1bn in real-terms are to go ahead. I whole-heartedly support their vital School Cuts Campaign, and encourage everyone to do the same: https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/rishi-sunak-stop-school-cuts

I spoke on a zoom Welsh Labour Grassroots meeting (20/11).

Carol Turner, a longstanding CND activist organised a conference held at Birkbeck (20/11) on ways in which new and emerging technologies are likely to influence warfare in future, addressing AI and robotics, hybrid warfare, the militarisation of space, etc, and asking what lessons peace and anti-war activists can learn. I gave the closing speech.

I contributed to the adjournment debate on Ethiopia in parliament (16/11, refer social media).

There was a parliamentary lobby on the issue of Tigray and I’m pleased that some constituents were able to attend. There is a very dire situation going on in Tigray and I subsequently asked parliamentary questions on the subject.

Islington

I visited the National Youth Theatre (NYT, 11/11) following the redevelopment of their building on Holloway Road. It was a pleasure to drop in on the different classes and meet the young people who benefit from the range of accessible programs which the NYT provide. We are lucky to have such an outstanding organisation and its facilities here in our constituency.

I met with Acorn (11/11), the renter’s union, and was very pleased to learn that they are setting up a local branch in Islington. At the moment they are going door to door getting to know local residents and the issues they care most about in the local area. I am told an official launch will take place in the new year, so if you would like more information and if you are a private renter wishing to get involved you can check their website at https://www.acorntheunion.org.uk

I was delighted to speak at the AGM of Islington People’s Rights (15/11) who continue to do an amazing job championing the needs of our Islington residents, and have done for many years. They are extremely adept in accommodating the fact that I never quite know at what point I’m going to arrive because of voting clashes in parliament.

Accompanied by Emily Thornberry and Council representatives, I was pleased to witness and speak at the unveiling of a plaque in St Paul’s Place to honour Richard Adams, the author of Watership Down (11/11).

The launch of the Let’s Talk Islington exhibition took place (08/11) at the Candid Art Centre, and I found it extremely interesting and had it gone on for longer I’d have thoroughly recommend a visit.

At Conway Hall I met with 2 finalist constituents in the London Youth Awards (07/11). These awards are a celebration of the impact of youth work and the people who make it happen.

At the Metropolitan University Economics Society (04/11) I spoke on the current Economic Situation of the UK, which was followed by a sincere and thoughtful discussion with the students. Those I spoke with were a testament to what a valuable institution of learning the London Met’ is for our constituency and society at large.

I thoroughly enjoyed my recent visit to Mildmay Community Centre where I spoke with Lorraine (03/11) who runs the community kitchen and foodbank, and Dom who runs the community garden. Community centres are the hearts of our neighbourhoods and are run by people who do incredible work driven by their love for their community. I am always humbled to hear of the remarkable work done in what are truly challenging conditions. I applaud every member of staff at Mildmay Community Centre and at every community centre across the country.

The Campaign Against Empty Homes (22/10) invited me to speak and I was pleased to, in keeping with some 35 years of personal campaigning to ensure housing that people can genuinely afford is available to all as a right and not a luxury.

I attended and judged jam and cakes at a Vegbox birthday event at St George’s Church (22/10)

I laid wreaths, as I do every year, at Islington Green, and later Manor Gardens in honour of Remembrance Sunday (13/11) accompanied by Emily Thornberry MP and other local dignitaries Council representatives. I read Edward Thomas’s poem, The Owl.

Strike picket lines continue and I’ve attended where I can, alongside the RMT, CWU, UCU and the GMB.

I had a zoom discussion with the Council staff regarding the Shaolin Temple (20/10). I support the Council in their efforts to identify suitable Gypsy and Traveller sites in the borough; I also recognise the cultural and religious significance of the Shaolin Temple which has provided important services to the community for the last 22 years. I hope we can find a resolution that recognises both objectives.

I get huge numbers of requests for interviews (media as well as personal), podcasts, videos of all kinds, and am constantly plucking those that matter significantly from them for time is short and many of the requests are inevitably low priority. I respond to media requests, prioritising the cost-of-living crisis and the strike action (totally related), as well as housing, the government’s fiscal plans, and international justice.

Manor Gardens Centre bid a fond farewell to their chief executive, Katy Porter and I called in at her send-off to say a few words (01/11). Over the years she has done a great deal of good work there.

I carry out my different roles as Trustee or Patron of a number of local organisations, among them: Brickworks trustees, Elizabeth House trustees, and the Light Project International.

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 for 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

E-mail: jeremy.corbyn.mp@parliament.uk

I am extremely concerned about the situation affecting the Sumarin family, and their ongoing eviction from their home in East Jerusalem.

I have been following this ongoing case closely and was extremely disappointed to learn that the Israeli Attorney General ruled that the eviction can go ahead.

This is an important case because the Jewish National Fund (JNF) applied for the home to be declared an “absentee’s property” first in 1987, despite the family being in residence – and eviction claims have been brought repeatedly against the Sumarin family since 1991 on this basis.

I signed a parliamentary motion (#EDM529) opposing the use of the Absentee Property Law to dispossess the Sumarins and other Palestinians. This also called on the UK Government to raise the case of the Sumarin family with Israel and asks the Charity Commission to review the charitable status of the JNF in the UK due to its involvement in the eviction.

I was elected on a manifesto that recognised that “there can be no military solution” to this “conflict, which must be settled on the basis of justice and international law” and committed to “reform the international rules-based order to secure justice and accountability for breaches of human rights and international law”. I stand by those commitments.

The UK Government must put pressure on the Government of Israel to end these evictions, end the oppression of the Palestinian people, and take steps towards a lasting peace.

I speak out on this subject very often and there are so very many families in Israel suffering in this way;  I will continue to do what I can to raise their profile.

The occupation of East Jerusalem has no legal basis and the takeover of Palestinian homes in Sheikh Jarrah cannot be legal under International Law. This includes the illegal Israeli settlements built in and around Sheikh Jarrah – building on occupied territories is illegal under international law.

In 2010 I visited Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem and met a family who at that point were being thrown out of their home by an Israeli government-backed plan allowing settlers to take over other peoples’ houses.

I fully condemn the illegal takeover of Palestinian homes in East Jerusalem. The suffering experienced by people who are forcibly evicted from their land and homes is an outrage and the act of expulsion itself is criminal.

In June 2020 I signed an early day motion (EDM) condemning the eviction of the Sumerin family from their East Jerusalem Home. In February this year I signed a Britain-Palestinian All Party Parliamentary Group open letter to Dominic Raab, Secretary of State, urging him to insist that Israel stop the illegal evictions and to take further diplomatic and trade actions if they didn’t.

Just last weekend I spoke out publicly, during a demonstration in London, against the terrible things that are happening in the occupied territories, including Sheikh Jarrah, the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Gaza.

I also spoke out in Parliament calling for an end to the occupation, an end to the siege of Gaza and for assurance of peace in the future, something I have called for in and out of Parliament for years.

I continue to use social media and other outlets (Double Down News and Al Jazeera among them) to make it clear that the escalation of hostilities in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv are a direct result of the home invasions by government-backed settlers in Sheikh Jarrah.

As a member of the Socialist Campaign Group of MPs, I’ve signed an open letter to the Government, calling on it to:
• Demand an end to the siege of Gaza and the illegal occupation of Palestinian territory
• Impose sanctions on Israel for its repeated violations of international law, place an embargo on arms sales and end trade with illegal settlements
• Demonstrate full support for the international Criminal Court’s opening of an investigation into alleged war crimes in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories
• Recognise the state of Palestine

The theft of land and homes in the West Bank, outside of the 1967 borders, is a continuing and illegal endeavour designed to thwart any chance of a Palestinian state. You can be sure that I will continue to raise the plight of the Palestinians in and out of Parliament.

We must stay active and engaged on this very serious situation.