Welfare State demonstration

I took some time out from doorknocking yesterday to go along to the demonstration to defend public services and the welfare state. Below, I briefly explain why.



And here I am with some other Green Party members, just before the march set off! :)

My reaction to the Budget

Keep Our NHS Public Rally

So, this evening I was on the steps of Hackney Town Hall, with the local branch of Keep Our NHS Public. We were drawing attention to a meeting of the Council's Health Scrutiny Committee, which was discussing the PCT's decision to put GP services out to tender for possible privatisation.

I've covered this issue in previous posts, so I won't write too much about it in detail now - but I should say that one thing which saddened me was the sight of several Labour councillors passing by, unwilling to say anything to the demonstrators. Shame, perhaps? Or just contempt for grassroots campaigners with whom their party would once have stood, who knows.

To her credit, Diane Abbott released a statement yesterday indicating her concern over the move. Nothing at all from the Lib Dems or Tories, as far as I can tell - and I was the only candidate for any elected office at the rally itself.

I filmed a very brief video at the rally, laying out in simple terms my opposition to these plans.

More campaign endorsements

I'm very pleased that London's Green MEP, and the Chair of the London Assembly, have both taken time out to endorse my campaign!

Introductory Video

Campaign endorsements

Two kind endorsements of my Parliamentary campaign, from Caroline Lucas MEP (Leader of the Green Party) and Peter Tatchell, the internationally known human rights activist.