Asma Begum

The bombs relentlessly raining down on Gaza have left us shaken, filled with horror and an overwhelming sense of heartbreak. Urgently, we demand an immediate ceasefire. In solidarity, I have personally added my signature to a letter urging our leaders for swift action. Additionally, I proudly stand among the 300 Labour councillors from across the nation who have joined the Labour Muslim Network's call for a ceasefire. Let our unified voices be heard!

Today Tower Hamlets Labour Councillors visited parliament to hand deliver our letter to Sir Keir Starmer. We met with Rushanara Ali MP who wanted to hear our concerns and provide us a briefing on what she and others are currently doing in parliament this includes calling for a de-escalation of the conflict, the release of hostages and the need for a humanitarian ceasefire.

Rushanara Ali, Mohammad Yasin MP and Afzal Khan and other Muslim and non-Muslim MPs are part of a growing group of Labour Party MPs, Councillors and members who are joining the UN and aid agencies in calling for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire.

Statement from TH Labour on Unite strike action - Tower Hamlets Labour Statement from TH Labour concerning industrial action announced by Unite members working for the London Borough of Tower Hamlets

Just finished day two of the incredible Golden tour of India! The Taj Mahal left me speechless - it truly is a sight to behold. The rich history of the Mughal empires and their breathtaking palaces have been nothing short of fascinating. Can't wait for what's in store next!

"Meeting two exceptional leaders in Sylhet, Mayor-elect Anwar Choudhury and Sylhet MP Habib Rahman , was a powerful experience. Engaging in dynamic discussions, we delved into the challenges and opportunities shaping Sylhet's future. Together, we are committed to driving positive change and unlocking its full potential."

Asma Begum Councillor in Bow West, Tower Hamlets.

Glad to meet with my elder brother and now the new mayor of Sylhet, Anwar Choudhury. It was a moment of pride and joy to see him take on this important role in our hometown. Anwar Bi as mayor is a testament to his leadership skills, dedication, and commitment to the betterment of Sylhet. I am confident that under his guidance, the city will thrive and prosper. I am excited to support him in his endeavors and contribute to the development of our beloved Sylhet.

We will always remember.

Disappointed to see yet another failure from . Spent the day helping those at Hooke House, who have been let down and left without water . This is unacceptable and must be addressed immediately. Working now with to take things further.

Today marks 30 years since the brutal and racist murder of Stephen Lawrence, a young black man who was full of potential and whose life was tragically cut short. As we remember Stephen, we also reflect on the progress we have made in the fight for justice and equality, and the work that still needs to be done.

Stephen's murder was a turning point in British history - it highlighted the institutional racism within the police force and wider society. The Lawrence family's tireless campaign for justice ultimately led to the Macpherson Report, which recognised the existence of institutional racism and implemented changes to improve race relations.

Yet, 30 years later, we are still grappling with the same issues. We have seen how the Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. We have seen how the Windrush scandal exposed the systemic racism that still permeates through our institutions. We have seen how the Black Lives Matter movement has shone a light on the widespread police brutality and racial injustice that exists around the world.

But despite the challenges, there is hope. Hope in the young people who are using their voices to demand change. Hope in the communities that are coming together to support one another. Hope in the organisations that are committed to ending racism and promoting equality.

As we remember Stephen, let us also remember the importance of standing up against racism and discrimination in all its forms. Let us recommit ourselves to the fight for justice and equality. Let us work towards creating a society where everyone is valued, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background.

The legacy of Stephen Lawrence is both tragic and powerful. Let us honour his memory by continuing to push for a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Wishing you all a very blessed and joyous Eid! May this special day bring peace, happiness and prosperity to you and your loved ones. Eid Mubarak!

"What an unforgettable night! Over 150 members of our Labour party came together to break fast in celebration of unity and diversity. Huge thanks to our extraordinary team at for flawlessly organizing this incredible event. Your hard work made it a night to remember, and we appreciate all those who joined us.

As we approach Eid, let's remember the importance of kindness and empathy towards our fellow human beings. We must not only focus on our own spiritual growth, but also on the wellbeing of those around us. Let's spread kindness throughout the year.

I extend my gratitude to my amazing chair Lauma Tilman, who suggested we host this event and contributed greatly to its success. Val Whitehead, who has been campaigning with me since 2013, and contributed towards this event and continues to work with me in Bow West. James King, who provided us with MC equipment and supported the event.

And last, but not least, to our incredible contributors: Dan Simpson, Sue Rossiter, Emma, Liton Bhai for providing delicious fruits, Anwar Bhai and Nazma Afa from Bethnal Green, and Tayibba who sang an amazing nasheed.

And a special thanks to Zaglul Bhai for helping with catering. Although he couldn't make it to the event, his support was invaluable.

Wishing you all a blessed Early Eid Mubarak filled with peace, joy, and spiritual rejuvenation. Early Eid Mubarak to everyone!"

Happy Independence Day, Bangladesh.

Ramadan Mubarak to all, wish you all a happy, safe and blessed Ramadan.

For 100 years, international Women’s Day has been marked on the 8th March. We stand on the shoulders of many great women. It’s our turn to be strong, to create a better future for all girls and women. Much to celebrate but so much more to do. un.org/en/observances/

After a busy council surgery, went out knocking on doors with volunteers. People on the doors friendly as always, but concerned with the increase in rents and bills. Really glad to see Roman road market busy as always.

How Labour can win: Bridget Phillipson on childcare, Brexit and faith On 12 April last year, Boris Johnson’s fixed penalty notice was dominating the news. Few noticed another, perhaps equally seismic political story in Bournemouth: a member of Keir Starmer’s shadow cabinet was being booed by the unions. Speaking at the National Education Union’s annual conferenc...

Meeting residents in my ward, who are frustrated with . Listening to personal stories and experiences. Will be raising loads of casework and enquiries.

My Councillor surgery was busy with residents. Casework taken on mainly around housing issues, but almost everyone feeling the cost of living crisis and are fearful of the future.

The UK economy is expected to shrink more than any other G7 country, including Russia that has been abandoned by half the world because of its invasion of Ukraine. The Tories clearly can't be trusted with our economy

UK economy to shrink more than Russia, predicts IMF The forecast leaves the UK economy languishing behind sanctions-hit Russia

Glad to have been invited to Keir Starmer’s powerful new year’s speech in East London today. He announced plans to devolve powers to local communities and end Tory crisis management

Real change comes from unleashing the pride and purpose of Britain’s communities.

That’s why today I set out how Labour will put power back into the hands of communities with our Take Back Control Bill.

Labour is ready for government and will deliver for working people.

Happy New Year everyone. May all your wishes come true in 2023.

Bridget Phillipson: “Childcare has to be part of a country’s economic strategy” The shadow education secretary on what the UK can learn from Estonia, snobbery at Oxford and whether she wants to be Labour leader.