The Labour-led council in Lambeth will change its constitution to prohibit motions on foreign and international affairs and give the Labour Chief Whip the final say on which public Deputations are heard at its Full Council meeting on Wednesday 17th of July.

The Green Party Group Leader, Cllr for Streatham St Leonard’s ward, Scott Ainslie states:

“Our borough has a proud track record of speaking out against oppression, and tolerating and accepting diverse opinions. We need the people of Lambeth to help us defend our democracy and free-speech and speak up to help us protect our fundamental rights from this authoritarian move by Labour. When the national government fails to speak out about situations affecting Lambeth’s residents, either directly or indirectly, let local leadership show the way. This is yet another example of a Labour council with a one-party state mentality, we are only going to see more of this dismissive and arrogant attitude following the general election.”

“Lambeth has one of the most diverse and international populations in the UK, with residents from many different countries across the globe and a proud history of speaking up on issues like Apartheid, for which we have an international profile: when Nelson Mandela was freed one of the first places he came to was Brixton - he said “The masses of the people in this country were in the forefront of our struggle. I am looking forward to going to Brixton to thank them for their help.’”

Cllr Nicole Griffiths, Streatham St. Leonard’s ward adds:

“There have been many motions over the years from both Green and Labour on human rights issues such as Gaza, Ukraine, Reparations and Apartheid. Elected councillors rightfully represent their constituents with motions such as these that confirm awareness, support and solidarity for situations and causes that impact their everyday lives. The same applies to Deputations - it is not for the Labour Chief Whip to decide who does or doesn’t get heard in the Chamber.”

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