Kate Osamor MP
Refugees Welcome Here The sight of the first asylum seekers, most of which will be found to be refugees when their claims are finally processed, boarding the Bibby Stockholm Housing Barge this week was shocking and is a dark stain on our country’s reputation as a fair and tolerant place. It is immoral, inhumane, and unnecessary to lock up refugees in floating prisons or camps. That shouldn’t need to be said. Treating those seeking safety with cruelty is not only morally wrong but also unnecessary. Every person arriving on our shores, regardless of their story, deserves humane treatment. It’s our ethical duty to extend the compassion we would want for ourselves. The Tories have opted to exploit the refugee crisis for political gain, marginalising vulnerable individuals and perpetuating a cycle of cruelty. Sadly, this is not unique to the UK. Across Europe countries have adopted punitive policies against refugees, attempting to deter non-European refugees from seeking safety on our shores. Instead of providing safe routes and assistance, governments are adopting measures that risk lives and increase the chances of tragedies. Just this week, 40 lives were lost as refugees attempted to cross the Mediterranean. These incidents underscore the urgent need for a change in approach. I’m committed to advocating for a humane response to the refugee crisis. Political rhetoric and short-term gains must not overshadow our core values. We must create safe routes for refugees, offer essential support, and treat every individual with respect. Embracing a humane approach not only saves lives but also reaffirms our commitment to a compassionate and inclusive society. |
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You Can’t trust the Tories with the NHS On Thursday shocking news NHS figures were published showing the extent to which the Tories have wrecked our Health Service. Over 7.6 million people waiting for essential NHS treatment is a stark reminder of Tory failure. Under their watch, our healthcare system has hit rock bottom, with waiting lists at an all-time high and patients suffering. This dire situation didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of 13 years of Tory cuts and privatisation. Nearly 400,000 people waited more than a year for treatment by June, showing the extent of the crisis. It’s time to reject the Tory agenda of outsourcing and privatisation. We need to reinvest in our healthcare system, ensure proper staffing, and provide timely care to all. The NHS is a cornerstone of our society, and as a Labour MP I will always do everything I can to protect it from the profiteers who have always sought to asset strip our Health Service for private gain. The Tories have proven they can’t be trusted with our NHS. Next year we must elect a Labour Government who can save it. |
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Rent Controls Now This week London’s Mayor renewed his calls to be given the powers he needs to enforce rent controls across the capital. I’m backing him all the way. London faces an existential housing crisis which requires urgent action. With160,000 Londoners falling behind on rent payments and 24% of private renters facing difficulties, it’s not enough to simply ban no-fault evictions when rents are unaffordable. The government’s dismissive stance on rent controls is out of touch with the pressing issues faced by London’s renters. While they claim that rent controls “do not work,” the reality on the ground tells a different story. It’s time to acknowledge that current policies are failing and adopt measures that truly address the concerns of renters. The dire circumstances are exacerbated by the fact that average advertised rents in London have reached a staggering £2,501 a month. This astronomical figure is crippling for many families, pushing them to the brink of financial instability. A fairer system that curbs unjustified rent increases and ensures stability for renters is now the only step forward. The government’s Renters Reform Bill is a welcome development, but it’s not enough on its own. The crisis demands bold action, not half-measures. The argument that rent controls lead to declining standards, lack of investment, and illegal subletting is a tired and flawed one. International examples and research paint a different picture. Londoners deserve better than outdated excuses. The Tories, the party run by and for Landlords, will never act to protect renters. The next Labour government must show its different and give the mayor the powers he needs to protect ordinary people from exploitative landlords. |
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Thank you for taking the time to read my latest update, if you have any issues that you would like to raise directly with me then please do email edmontonconstituency@parliament.uk . I’m always happy to help whenever possible. Kind regards, Kate Osamor Member of Parliament for Edmonton |