African unity in Parliament: Labour party activists launch caucus

Last week in the Wilson Room at Parliament’s Portcullis House, something rather special occurred. Almost all of Labour’s Caribbean and African politicians came together to show support and solidarity for the newly formed African/Caribbean Labour party group.

Business shadow cabinet member Chuka Umunna was joined by other MP’s including Diane Abbott , David Lammy , Chi Onwurah, and Keith Vaz.

They all welcomed the move for a stronger African, Caribbean voice in the party. Diane Abbott urged the group to support each other, and if they have disagreements they don’t always have be to aired in public.

The group set up by Prof Cecile Wright and a  number of councillors including Patrick Vernon, Sanchia Alasia and Josie Channer. The group has been concerned that of 190 candidates selected to fight the next general election, only two new African Caribbean candidates have been selected.

Chuka Umunna told the audience that there was still some work to do within the party, but he argued if Labour came to power they would have a record number of BME Ministers.

On behalf of OBV I was invited to speak. I felt because we are non-partisan we can often say more than those seeking selection from the party colleagues. I informed the group that they must demand more, but, I argued their demand must be backed up with formidable numbers. Part of the reason why more are not being selected is because the local parties remain unrepresentative.

We wish the group well, they will need to be strong otherwise their party will once again take the Black vote for granted.

Simon Woolley & Patrick Vernon