My report fails MP

• I RECEIVED MP Emily Thornberry’s parliamentary report this week. Mrs Thornberry alerts us to her civil libertarian voting against the invasion of Iraq, her joining the march and voting against detention without charge. All admirable qualities until we discover that she completely fails to mention backing ID cards 100 per cent and supporting even more intrusive CCTV surveillance. She has also backed almost every piece of anti-terror legislation, including section 43 stop-and-search which police are widely abusing without opposition. Such instances include impinging the right of civil protest.
As for free primary school meals, where is the social fairness in that? There are tens of thousands of affluent people in Islington, and they are getting their children’s school meals paid for by the taxes of the lower paid – this is Robin Hood politics in reverse. Cuts will be made elsewhere to pay for this mad scheme.
If this scheme was means-tested, the children in need could have a breakfast and a dinner on their table too. So instead of feeding the needy, they create a finger buffet for all.
Teacher’s comments on the report: While there are good intentions, largely this candidate has been inconsistent, unbalanced and very subjective in the presentation of facts.
Overall, a fair but undistinguished performance – maintaining and promoting the values of the New Labour mission (more Barnsbury Square than Packington estate) but failing to deliver on the values, needs, demands and aspirations of working people.
GORDON MCINTOSH
Britannia Row, N1