Angela Rayner Backs Diane Abbott’s Bid to Stand in General Election Amid Labour Controversy

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner stated on Sky News that Diane Abbott is free to "leave on her own terms" or "run if she chooses," amidst a dispute regarding the long-serving MP's career prospects.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, May 30, 2024, 5:

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Angela Rayner has expressed her support for Diane Abbott's candidacy within the Labour Party, while refuting claims that the party leadership is engaging in factionalism.

On the Sky News Daily Podcast, the deputy leader of the Labour Party said to political editor Beth Rigby that she sees no obstacle to the long-time ally of Corbyn becoming a Labour MP if she chooses to pursue that path.

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A dispute flared up regarding Ms. Abbott's career following the reinstatement of her party privileges after a twelve-month suspension due to remarks she made suggesting that Jewish individuals do not experience racism.

The decision opened the door for her to contend for her position in Hackney North, a seat she has held for 37 years, despite rumors that she might be prohibited from running.

However, Ms. Rayner informed Sky News, "I see no reason why Diane shouldn't be able to run as a Labour MP.

"She has undergone a procedure, indeed… she has made an apology, and from what I understand, it has been addressed.

The party whip has informed her that she has been reinstated as a member of the Parliamentary Labour Party.

"There's no reason she shouldn't serve as a Labour MP."

When questioned about whether she supports Ms. Abbott running for re-election, Ms. Rayner expressed that she believes Ms. Abbott should have the freedom to choose her own path, whether that involves retiring or continuing to serve.

She referred to Ms. Abbott, the inaugural black female parliamentarian, as a "pioneer" and remarked that the briefings concerning her were "extremely disrespectful."

"Ms. Rayner expressed admiration for her, noting her significant impact as a strong advocate for her constituents and her role as a pioneer, which has inspired numerous individuals."

"I'm troubled by these unnamed sources giving briefings.

"Keir truly detests them… he has no tolerance for anything that appears tacky. It's just not in his nature, so I'm certain he shares my frustration with these briefings.

"It benefits no one and shows a great deal of disrespect towards Diane."

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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer stated yesterday that no decision had been reached regarding the exclusion of Ms. Abbott.

At a rally in Hackney North, she strongly denied these claims, pledging to resist "by any means necessary" and alleging that the Labour leadership was systematically removing left-wing members from the party.

Discover Further: Diane Abbott is determined to run in Hackley, using whatever methods necessary. Beth Rigby Commentary – Abbott controversy emerges as a persistent distraction for the Labour Party.

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On Wednesday evening, Faiza Shaheen, a candidate aligned with the left wing, was prohibited from running for the Labour Party following allegations that she endorsed social media content minimizing antisemitism by "liking" it.

Lloyd Russell-Moyle, the Member of Parliament for Brighton Kemptown and a member of the party's left wing, stated that the Labour Party had suspended him due to a "vexatious and politically motivated complaint." He also mentioned that he is being prevented from representing the party in future elections.

Several candidates who support the Labour leadership have secured nominations in strongholds.

The turmoil within has overshadowed the party's national election efforts, which initially began positively, indicated by a survey showing Labour holds a 27-point advantage over the Conservatives.

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Ms. Rayner stood up for her leader, stating, "I don't believe Keir is behaving in a divisive manner."

She noted, "Like any political party, the Labour Party has various groups within it. However, our success hinges on our ability to remain a broad church."

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