Sadiq Khan has kindly sent me an email today [Sunday] distributed by The Labour Party on behalf of Owen Smith, candidate in the Labour leadership contest.
It was only fair that I respond. Dear Sadiq Thank you for taking the time to write to me, expressing your support for Owen. I remember along with a number of good colleagues throughout the early part of 2010 working your constituency and helping to turn it around from what was predicted a Tory gain, to a Labour Retain. The hours and the days we put in to do this, proved worthwhile. I will not forget that election night, when it was predicted that the Tories would win the country, and we actually got a hung parliament! I remember you pounding the streets until late at night, ensuring everyone who could vote, did so. So I have no doubt about your commitment in wanting to see Labour in political power. I was pleased for you and the constituency when in 2015 you increased your majority. May I also send a belated congratulations on becoming Mayor of London. Which I hope you will be a success. And I respected you in maintaining your personal standards, in the face of the awful challenge from the Tories in their campaign. Their attacks was insulting to you personally and to the city itself. I did not agree with you appearing with Cameron, on the Remain vote. That does not mean to say I did not agree with remain. Especially after he started the slurs against you whilst standing for Mayor from the comfort of parliament. I just think campaigning with the Tories is wrong and was an error of judgement. Whilst I respect your view and your right to express support for Owen. And I respect Owen right to stand for leader. I must say, there is nothing what you have said, or Owen for that matter, that will persuade me to vote against JC less than a year after his emphatic win. I believe that the battle we face is with the Tories that are in power, not with ourselves. I have seen in recent weeks the Mantra that JC is not a leader, that he cannot be Prime Minister, in the main by people who have caused confusion, upset and division. I would say to you as I have said to Owen, can we please get back to some sanity and unity. And if you think there are shortcomings regards JC leadership, privately speak to him, and privately encourage him to do better! After all I am sure that is what you would have done with Ed, or other former leaders. I have seen people posting some remarks about you today, regards your email and your article. I don't share the views of vilification for you doing what you have done. Although I disagree with you. I thought it only correct after your public support against JC, and for taking the time and trouble to publicise widely such, including your message to me, that I returned the compliment by publishing my reply to you. May I wish you well and I hope your term of office is a success for you, for Labour and for the people of London. Comradely regards, Mick |
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