Support4John

LabourHome: 81% say that John is "the most credible standard-bearer for the left"

YouGov poll: John is most popular potential challenger against Brown

For months now, we have been building a movement to elect John McDonnell as leader of the Labour party. Below are a selection of endorsements from supporters of the campaign. This page will be updated very regularly - so keep coming back...

"John's campaign offers the labour movement a clear choice of policy in the future - a policy that reflects what the Party really believes, and he deserves our support."
Tony Benn

"I am delighted to be backing John McDonnell for leader of the Labour party. John has a consistent record of supporting peace, workers' rights and civil liberties and has pledged to restore democracy to the party. He has run a grassroots campaign which is reconnecting with Labour members, supporters and trade unionists."
Christine Shawcroft - Labour Party NEC

"John is forthright in standing on a socialist platform; protecting public services, opening up Government, and changing our foreign policy. It is vital people support his candidature and enough MPs do so - a full campaign can only benefit the Labour Party".
David Drew MP

"I am proud to be backing a candidate who supports UNISON's policies. No other MP has fought harder for peace, workers rights and an end to privatisation. UNISON activists across the country are backing John because he is offering a real alternative to Brown's agenda of privatisation, cuts and pay freezes."
Jon Rogers - UNISON NEC (pc)

I am pleased to endorse John McDonnell for leader of the Labour party on behalf of Amicus Unity Gazette. John is the only prospective candidate who shares the same agenda as the Gazette, Amicus the union and most importantly of all our members for improving the lives of working people through restoring workers rights and encouraging international industrial, social & economic cooperation rather than conflict and global exploitation. I would also like to take the opportunity to encourage Amicus and other trade union supported MPs to nominate John to ensure that a Labour Government will deliver policy democratically determined by both TUC and Labour Party Conferences.
John Boardman - Amicus Unity Gazette

"I joined the Party 30 years ago as a Labour Party Young Socialist - and like many others desperate to see Labour back in power after 18 years of Conservative Government I voted for Blair for leader back in 1994. While I now despair of New Labour, I'm absolutely inspired to see so many young people getting behind the John4Leader campaign. I believe John is the only leadership candidate who can give us a fresh start and take Labour forward in a socialist direction we can be proud of. He is a principled and courageous politician with a huge following in the trade unions and grassroots."
Cllr. Susan Press, Calder Valley

"John McDonnell is an excellent candidate for leadership of the Labour Party and has my full support. He is a man of integrity, gravitas and vision with vast breadth and depth of experience of government along with politics firmly rooted in the Labour and trade union movement.
"John is fighting the leadership campaign on real Labour policies with the guiding principles of peace, public service, socialism and equality.His campaign has a raft of specific policies which resonate with working people right across the U.K. The meetings John is holding around the country are encouraging people to join and re-join the party; engaging with a wide range of people including our young folk and attracting overwhelming grassroots support.
"John would make an outstanding leader of the Labour Party; able and willing to unite all the various elements of what is a broad church, along with our trade union brothers and sisters in the wider movement. He would also be an exceptional Prime Minister offering exactly what Britain needs now and uniting the party across the British Isles. Labour Party members need a democratic election for the leadership of our party. We need a contest, not a coronation, to allow us re-invigorate the party and the movement. We need John for leader.
"I am proud to be supporting a candidate with a consistent record of fighting for workers' rights, peace and civil liberties."
Elaine Smith MSP

"I am very pleased to announce that the TGWU Broad Left at its meeting in Birmingham on Sunday 11th February unanimously endorsed the campaign to support John McDonnell MP as an alternative candidate to Gordon Brown for leader of the Labour Party.
"For all these reasons the TGWU Broad Left believes it is vital that we speak out in support of the only candidate who offers an alternative, based on our joint trade union agenda to reclaim the Labour Party. By supporting John McDonnell MP we can add the name of the influential TGWU Broad Left to the growing ranks of trade union and labour movement organisations that have already endorsed his campaign. This will add to the pressure on many of our Labour MPs cocooned in the unreal atmosphere in Westminster who currently believe that there is no alternative to Gordon Brown, New Labour and - and in the case of those in marginal seats, almost inevitable defeat in the next general election. We will now be redoubling our efforts to persuade MPs to nominate John McDonnell MP and achieve the 44 nominations required for there to be a contest - and then a real and deep debate for the soul of the Labour Party. Another BETTER world is possible for working people."
Martin Mayer - Chair of T&G Broad Left / Member of T&G Executive

"I am supporting John McDonnell MP as leader of the Labour Party because John will bring back a lot of the socialist beliefs that the Labour Party was always known for but down the years I believe have been lost with New Labour.
"John is a dedicated devoted family man, like myself. He has served his own constituency, Hayes and Harlington, for ten years as MP and as a local councillor for his constituency previously. I have know him personally for 15 years and have always found him to be an honest, hard working member who is there for the working class people. John, I think, would make an excellent leader for the people in the United Kingdom, given the opportunity."
Ronnie Campbell MP

"John is the only candidate in this election talking about real social and economic justice, the threat of climate change and the erosion of our civil liberties. He understands the need to build Labour as an effective, campaigning party that uses the skills of its members, and he has my full support."
Cllr. John Reardon - Carlisle City Councillor / PPC for Westmorland and Lonsdale (2005)

"John is the only candidate for young workers and trade unionists. He is committed to a real living wage without exceptions for young people, the restoration of rights at the workplace, and an end to the privatisation of our public services. I'm just glad we finally have a candidate for the Labour leadership who actually supports UNISON policies!
Marsha-Jane Thompson - UNISON National Young Members Forum (pc)

"Welsh Labour Grassroots, the organisation of the left and centre-left of the Labour Party in Wales, has voted overwhelmingly to support the the John4Leader campaign.
"The agenda followed by Welsh Labour in the Assembly Govrnment shows that despite what Blair and Bown say, there is an alternative to New Labour.
"The Labour Party as a whole needs to decide whether it is a party of peace or war, of public services or private profit, and whether it is accountable to its members, or to millionaire donors. Only in the John4Leader campaign are party members and supporters able to have this debate."
Nick Davies - Chair of Welsh Labour Grassroots

"I've known John McDonnell for more than 20 years and he is a politician of rare integrity. As a UNISON activist, I have appreciated his support as we have fought against job losses, service cuts and the erosion of the Local Government Pension Scheme. As a campaigner for refugee and migrant rights, I've found John among the handful of MPs consistently ready to take a principled if sometimes unpopular stand. If you are against the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, if you are for public services and not private profit, then John's campaign for leader warrants your active support."
George Binette - Chair of UNISON Broad Left / Convenor of Camden UNISON (pc) / Secretary to Defend Asylum Seekers (pc)

"As a long-standing Labour councillor in Oxford I'm supporting John McDonnell MP for leader. He stands for the kind of socialist Labour Party I believe in. Bringing home our soldiers from Iraq, ending Health Service privatization, standing up for civil liberties, delivering a decent state pension and creating much more renewable energy. That's the kind of Government most of the electorate want too. And if you believe in something, you should vote for it."
Cllr. John Tanner - Oxford City Council

"John McDonnell has been one of the most serious advocates to return full trade union rights to Prison Officers throughout the UK. John's stand on many issues relating to workers rights, freedom of speech and on foreign policy make him the best candidate to not only lead the Labour Party, but lead our country into better times. I have no reservations whatsoever in supporting John in this campaign."
Brian Caton - General Secretary of the Prison Officers' Association

"John McDonnell's campaign is proving to be exactly what the Labour Party needs. A debate about our future direction as a party that is enthusing many people who had lost hope in new Labour. I hope that John gets the nominations he needs and that party members will have a real choice about our future political direction when it is time to elect our next Leader."
Cllr. Geoff Lumley - Isle of Wight CLP

"I am actively supporting John's campaign for the Labour leadership because he, like me, believes in a socialist alternative to the policies pursued by New Labour. Now more than ever is the time for a Labour government committed to peace, nuclear disarmament, and the UN Charter; the free and universal provision of public services; and a redistribution of wealth that helps those most in need and tackles head-on the growing divide between rich and poor. I believe the policies, proposed by John in his Women's Manifesto, will ensure that women will play a leading role in the campaign for justice and democracy and inspire everyone to help create a better world."
Linda Riordan MP

"UCU is not affiliated to any political party but we watch in horror as the Government turns back the clock on so many education issues. For this reason and because he will fight for trade union rights, end the war in Iraq and support public service - in a personal capacity - I support John McDonnell's bid for the leadership of the Labour Party."
Paul Mackney - UCU Joint General Secretary

"John McDonnell is the only candidate who can bring about radical change to transform the lives of working people both locally and nationally. John is often portrayed as the fringe candidate by many in New Labour. However, John's campaign includes the restoration of the earnings link with the state pension, public ownership of the railways and the right for council's to directly invest in council housing. "These are the declared wishes of party members after voting democratically at Labour Party conference. Surely, John McDonnell is the mainstream candidate with New Labour candidates on the fringe? I urge party members to bear this in mind when voting in the forthcoming contest."
Cllr Matthew Brown - Preston

"I am a firm supporter of John's quest for the leadership of the Labour Party.
"John has consistently used his election as an MP and now through his leadership candidacy to campaign for the Labour Party in government to reverse the lack of power and influence experienced by disadvantaged individuals and communities.
"His political commitment to peace, public services and equality is unshakeable. John has a reputation for working tirelessly for these objectives both within Parliament and across grassroots labour, community and trade union organisations and that is why I will be giving my support in the forthcoming leadership vote."
Bill Etherington MP

"More and more people are coming out in support of John McDonnell as the next Leader of the Labour Party. I am proud to say that I will be one of those who will be backing John McDonnell when the vote is finally announced. Remember it is up to you, the party member which direction you want this party to go - New Labour has been and gone and its time for us as a party to return to what we stand for - SOCIALISM
John would be a good Leader for Our Party and would reinvigorate our great party. He inspires many not the few, and return the party back to its grassroots. He is a good listener and always prepared to take on the concerns of you the party member.
It is therefore with great pleasure that I support and endorse John McDonnell to be the next Leader of our good party - The Labour Party. So please vote 4 John!"
Cllr Richard Bertin - Vale of Glamorgan

"RMT wants to see public transport and all our services back in public hands where they belong, with the billions earmarked for weapons of mass destruction spent on public services, including a massive increase in public transport capacity, not least for the sake of the environment.
RMT wants the anti-union laws swept away and a Trade Union Freedom Bill enacted.
RMT wants to see the minimum wage and pensions set at levels that people can live on.
There is only one candidate who fits the bill, and that is why RMT backs John McDonnell for leader."
Bob Crow - General Secretary of the RMT

"I'm backing John because we need a change in direction and not just a change in leader, not least if we are to maintain power into a fourth term. John has the skill, energy and integrity to provide exactly that."
Mike Wood MP

"Having experienced balancing a low paid part-time job with bringing up children, I am pleased to support a candidate who is completely committed to making childcare affordable and establishing a real living wage."
Alice Mahon - campaigner and former MP for Halifax

"I am supporting John McDonnells campaign for Leader as he is the candidate who will support the campaign against cuts to the NHS, against the renewal of Trident and against further PFI agreements. And he is the candidate who will support trade unions in their fight for better wages and conditions. As well he is the candidate who wants the Labour Party to be a campaigning socialist party."
Cllr. Barry Buitekant - Haggerston Ward, Hackney

"Last week, I saw the Left contender, John McDonnell, in action at a party meeting up 'ere. He's very persuasive and if he can get on the ballot paper - a big "if" - then I shall vote for him.
"Not because I expect him to win, but because he has the guts to stand up for what he believes in, what the Labour Party traditionally believed in and what many voters still want." The Mirror - Friday 16th March 2007
Paul Routledge - Mirror journalist and biographer of Gordon Brown

"The Scottish Labour Campaign for Socialism supports John McDonnell because as Labour Party leader he will attack the poverty, inequality, low skill economy of Scotland. Another Scotland is possible."
Vince Mills - Scottish Labour Campaign for Socialism

"We need a socialist leader, troops out of Iraq, no Trident replacement and a new deal for social services and housing - and that's why I support John McDonnell for leader."
Walter Wolfgang - Labour Party NEC

"It's really important that Labour Party members are able to vote for a candidate with integrity,one who upholds traditional Socialist values and who voted against the Iraq war."
Sue Lent - Labour Assembly Candidate for Cardiff Central and Chair of Cardiff Stop the War Coalition

"The union's executive committee has unanimously decided to recommend John McDonnell to be Leader of the Labour Party when Tony Blair leaves office in the summer.
"All ASLEF members who pay the political levy will be invited to vote on who they want to succeed Tony and the union will pledge all its votes to the winner - but the executive is adamant that the union's best interests would be served if John McDonnell were Leader."
ASLEF

"I am very pleased to support John McDonnell's campaign.
Many have departed from Labour under the Blair/Brown leadership. They said 'Labour means business'. It did indeed. The interests of big business have determined everything from the illegal war and occupations to senseless privatisation.
The needs of Labour - security of employment and a just society – are not considered.
John McDonnell stands as the only possible candidate to support. The fact that he is ignored by the mass media is an acknowledgement that he is serious - a back-handed compliment but distinctive nevertheless.
John's support for the best traditions of the Labour movement; common ownership, democratic control, opposition to all forms of imperialism, solidarity with the oppressed - all this sets him apart from the other candidates. You could say that John McDonnell is Labour's last chance."
Ken Loach

"The man has been a brilliant MP and wonderful local politician. He always asks the local party’s views in major debates. It's no surprise that his leadership bid got unanimous endorsement from his party. Above all, he listens to everyone but will lead from the front."
Peter McDonald - Chair of Hayes and Harlington CLP

"I am proud to endorse John McDonnell's bid for leader of the Labour Party. The New Labour experiment has been a disaster for the Labour Party - actually putting us to the right of the Tories at times.John stands for Real Labour policies which are needed now to win back confidence of the person in the street and ensure another decade of Real Labour. As a Trade Unionist I know that John is the candidate that will give us The Trade Union Freedom Bill that is why I call upon Trade Unionists everywhere to UNITE and support John."
Paul Brown - TGWU Convenor and Woking CLP

"As trade unionists we have despaired at the misguided policies that New Labour has pursued. The continuation of these policies will lead to electoral defeat at the next general election.
John McDonnell as leader of the party gives us hope that as a democratic party under his leadership it will return to its true values. In Government it will remove the remaining Conservative anti-trade union legislation, will return utilities where needed to public ownership, build council houses and put into place a ethical foreign policy - and much more."
GMB Milton Keynes City Branch

"I would like to formally endorse John McDonnell as a candidate for Leader of the Labour Party.
"I have known John for many years and have always been impressed with his commitment both to the core values of the Labour Party and the good of his fellow beings. I do not believe that there is a harder working MP anywhere.If there is he/she is working more than 24/7.
"He is a very popular local MP and is recognised as someone that people trust. As witnessed by his bucking the trend at the last General Election by increasing his vote.On the doorstep the Labour Party generally, and the leadership in particular, were not as popular as we might have hoped. But mention of John's name soon allayed concerns.
"I am convinced he would lead the Labour Party in the direction that core Labour voters would want if nominated and elected."
Cllr John Major - Hillingdon

"As a trade unionist and individual Labour Party member John McDonnell has my wholehearted support. He stands for trade union rights, against privatisation, for civil liberties and for the issues that matter in the workplace. He has championed the rights of trade union members - not just in Parliament but in meetings, on picket linesand on the streets. He is unequiviocally on our side and I'm on his."
Jeremy Dear - General Secretary of the NUJ (pc)

"I am pleased to back John McDonnell for the Labour Leadership. He is an honest man, who will deliver for the Labour Party at the next general election. I believe that John's aspirations are the same as the Amicus Unity Gazette and other left and mainstream organisations I belong to. As a NW regional board member in the Labour party I have found that many of my colleagues feel that a change in the party is needed. They feel that our public sector workers should be better paid, the minimum wage needs increasing for all workers, we should scrap trident and pull our troops out of Iraq. I know I speak on behalf many people people in the North West region of the Labour Party when I say that John McDonnell is the man to deliver the change we need in the party and in the country. Another World is Possible."
John Wiseman - North West Regional Board

"I am backing John's leadership campaign because he is raising the issues that Labour must address to regain the support the party has been loosing amongst the electorate. As John points out, an urgent change to foreign policy is needed - the invasion and occupation of Iraq is inflicting great suffering and has precipitated a sharp decline in Labour's standing. His defence of public services and equality also have widespread appeal."
Barry Gray - Chair of Hackney North and Stoke Newington CLP (pc)

"As a Labour Party member, I'm supporting John because having known and worked with him since the days of the GLC, I know John not only has the ability to lead our country towards socialism but he is an honest, imaginative, intelligent and diligent campaigner for peace, socialism and co-operation - it is a true honour to call him 'comrade'!"
Dave Wetzel

"The Coventry Trades Union Council campaigns for Traveller and trade union rights and justice and equality in Ireland. We oppose the war in Iraq and call for the restoration of the link between wages and the state pension. I know of John McDonnell's total commitment to these campaigns and his involvement with the Campaign Group of Labour MPs. I very recently joined the Labour Party to vote for him in the leadership election. He is the only candidate with an untarnished record of support for the working class and opposition to imperialism."
John Swift - Secretary of Coventry Trades Union Council

"I believe that millions of Labour voters are crying out for what they actually voted for in 1997, a Labour Government. John's views reflect those of the majority of ordinary working people, and would inspire and unite them to bring about a resounding defeat of the Tories in the next election."
Mark Turner - Branch Secretary of Cardiff County UNISON (pc)

"I have known John for over 24 years and I admire his courage in standing for the leadership, so the party has the opportunity to debate its future direction. I hope MP's can also show John support so this essential debate will take place."
Cllr Anthony Way - leader of Hillingdon Labour Group

"I recall clearly the widespread resentment felt throughout the Labour movement when 'Big Jim' was crowned as leader by the nominations and votes of members of the Parliamentary Labour Party, to the exclusion of others in the party.
Today MP's can nominate from within their number but the election must engage the "third/a third/a third" now required by the rule changes since then.
The party's declaration of democratic principles demands an unfettered debate on policy issues and direction, followed by a decisive choice based on collective aspiration and agreement. Such an episode would reinvigorate the party nationally and re-emphasise its right to maintain its claim as the party of governance.
In order to furnish that debate the party MUST have more than one candidate from within the PLP - so members MUST have full regard to these features when considering action in the near future.
Any nominee requires at least 45 nominations to secure a place on the list.
I am more than happy to add my name in support of John who will I know ensure a debate worthy of the party I joined in October 1950 - and then we can all join in - can't we?"
Frank Cook MP

"John McDonnell represents the traditional Labour values of fairness, justice and peace that Scotland has always been proud of. I am supporting John's campaign for leader of the Labour Party because I am confident that a Labour Party and a Labour Government led by him will ensure a future that we can all be proud of."
Gordon McKay - Secretary of North Ayrshire and Arran CLP (pc)

"Labour councillors want to provide high-quality, democratically-run local services. We want to tackle the massive problems of inequality we face in many areas. The Tories prevented local authorities from achieving those things, and there is huge frustration that a Labour government hasn't done more to repair the damage. We still face heavy-handed controls from Gordon Brown's Treasury. In key areas -- education and housing -- power has if anything shifted further from local government to Whitehall. I've worked with John McDonnell on local government issues. I know he is committed to restoring real autonomy to councils and enabling us to make a difference to the people who depend on us. I'm supporting John for Leader, and I'm sure Labour councillors around the country will be doing the same."
Cllr Gordon Nardell - Southwark

"John has been the MP for Hayes and Harlington for the last 10 years and throughout that time he has proved to be a very popular and very effective community MP. John's community socialism is the key element in his success and it is something that has united the culturally diverse community of Hayes and Harlington. I am fully supportive of John's campaign for the Labour Leadership because I believe that John's brand of community socialism is the key element that is missing in today's "New" Labour party. Like many party workers at a grass roots level, I am keen to ensure the successful future of our party and indeed the whole Labour movement and to this end I believe that John McDonnell is by far the best candidate to move our party forward."
Cllr Peter Curling - Hillingdon

"I am supporting John for leader because of the policies he portrays, substantial policies that works in the interests of ordinary working people and not big business. Socialists believe in public ownership and control of certain central elements of our economy and society so we can once again work to an ethos of public service not profit maximisation. We want a leader that puts the blame for the state of affairs in Iraq where they truly lie and that's with the present American Political Leadership. We have and opportunity by voting for John to say to all those that feel abandoned by the political elite that there are people still around that care about you and your experiences and there is an alternative."
Cllr Andrew Birchall - Chorley

"I would personally be very pleased to give an endorsement to John McDonnell's leadership campaign. John came and spoke at a large quorate (standing room only) Hammersmith and Fulham UNISON Branch Annual General Meeting where he posed a real alternative to the Labour agenda on offer from either Tony Blair or Gordon Brown. We passed a motion unanimously supporting his leadership campaign. John McDonnell put a real Labour agenda to the packed meeting stating no to privatisation, no to war and occupation, no replacement for Trident, yes to public services, yes to peace and yes to trade unionism. His alternative queens speech captured the mood of our members who are fighting draconian cuts and are looking for a political lead to defend their jobs and the services they provide. The branch wants a Labour leader whose policies reflect their aspirations. The fact that he has always supported UNISON policy was noted by the meeting."
Tom Broderick - Hammersmith and Fulham UNISON Branch Chair and UNISON Benefits steward

"I have been womens officer for the Hayes & Harlington constituency for many years, and a Labour councillor for 13 years, my specialist remit is Domestic Violence and the profound effect it has on women and children, both of whom are victims, women who are assaulted and the children who are the witnesses to the violence.
John has always been incredibly supportive, helping me on many occasions when I have needed the input of the MP."
Cllr Janet Gardner - Hillingdon

"I support John as he is arguing for the defence of public services - including delivering on party policy of defending council housing and renationalising the railways - and because he is the only candidate who took the principled stand of opposing the invasion of Iraq."
Ben Folley - Youth Officer of Islington North CLP (pc)

"I am support John McDonnell for leader because supports the Trade Union Freedom Bill. Law on industrial disputes is worse today than it was one hundreds ago after the passing of the Trade Disputes Act 1906. It is essential that this should be changed, and John has promised to do it."
Jim Mortimer - General Secretary of the Labour Party (1982 - 1985)

"John's record on gay rights and the promotion of equality is second to none. He has done more minority rights than anybody else in parliament. Britain needs a leader who is prepared to speak up and act for the discriminated and oppressed in our society, and I believe John is the right person to do this. John's campaign is one of equality, tolerance and freedom, and that is why I'm proud sto support him in his bid for the Labour leadership."
Jonathan Millins - Equalities Officer for Kent Labour Students

"For the first time in my lifetime, the Labour Party now has the opportunity for a real debate on its future and the possibility of a genuinely radical, progressive leadership. Because of my belief in democratic socialism, public services to be proud of, decent living wages, trade union rights and international peace, I am supporting John McDonnell for leader and urging my fellow Labour Party members and trade union members to do the same."
Rory MacQueen - GMB shop steward / Hackney North and Stoke Newington CLP

"It is a tragedy that the effect of massive increases in health spending are being seriously undermined by the money taken out of the NHS by PFI, independent treatment centres, health profiteers and pharmaceutical multi-nationals.
We are in danger of losing the next election unless we put people before profit. John is the only candidate unequivocally clear on this issue
Chris Allen - East Midlands Labour Link UNISON (pc)

"I am supporting John McDonnell MP because he is a Socialist who believes in a greater distribution of wealth and equality. He is also a strong Trade Unionist who knows that the Trade Union link is important to the Labour Party and he will ensure that Party Members have a say on policy."
Michael Clapham MP

"I would be pleased to endorse John McDonnell MP for the position of leader of the Labour Party. Labour needs to reconnect with its real membership if it is to remain a relevant workers party and if it is to win back the many Labour voters who are deserting the party in droves. John's restatement of socialist values is the distinctive way to do this and to enthuse many who are at present switched off by the center dullness of both main parties. John's advocacy of policy is in line with the views expressed by our members year after year and there is a real yearning for that return to socialist values that was at the creation of the Party and must be part of its future.
Many cry out for a debate about the future of the Party and the country. John is the only candidate able to make that debate a reality and to allow the Party to rediscover its campaigning zeal, its radical cutting edge and to bring a passion and commitment back to politics. It is also vital that we see of any threat from right wing extremism and the policies of socialist renewal advocated by John McDonnell is the way to do that.
More of the same simply will not do. We need a radical, socialist alternative, and I believe John McDonnell offers that."
Joe Marino - General Secretary of Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union (pc)

"When John spoke at our branch AGM the members were so impressed that they unanimously passed a resolution of support and agreed to submit a resolution to CWU conference calling for national union support. We are also writing to members of the union's group of MPs urging them to nominate John. We need a Labour leader who will stand up for the rights of trades unionists and against the privatisation of services. We are seeing with the 'liberalisation' of postal services the damaging effect this has on both the service to customers and the jobs and conditions of our members."
John Hart - Secretary of CWU London West End Amalgamated branch

"We need a contest for Leader based on a debate over ideas not a coronation. For the first time in my life time the Labour party takes regular positions to the right of public opinion. The government is constantly chasing the agenda rather than creating the agenda. The public think that those in government are in it to serve themselves and not the country.
"We need a change based on honesty, debate, discussion and genuine consultation. John Mcdonnell offers us all of these and a return to real Labour values updated for the twenty first century. I will be proud to support him when our GC meets to make its nominations."
Cllr Simon Letts - Southampton

"Without any reservations, I proudly endorse the candidature of John McDonnell for the labour party leadership. John is a rare political icon whose unshakable believe in equity and justice, passion in defending workers' rights and unflinching support for trade unionism and his resilience in fighting against the erosion of civil liberties and in defence of the most vulnerable in the society is unassuming. These have unequivocally made him 'a man of the people'. And why not.... his belief in the advancement and achievement of greater global industrial harmony, mutual economic engagements and opposition to domination and recolonisation have position him as better political player in dealing with international political economy especially with the developing countries. He is simply a beacon of hope for all."
Alphonsus Uche Okafor-Mefor - human rights activist

"Kilburn T&G branch 1/724 have endorsed John for Leader for many reasons. John is the only Labour candidate who has consistently stood up for trade union rights including the need for corporate manslaughter legislation.I remember the support he gave to those of us who defied the Tory govenment's ratecapping legislation in the eighties. He was also one of a handful of MP's who regularly spoke out in support of the Irish community during 30 years of censorship, war and oppression.Our branch will be putting pressure upon the leaership of the T&G to back John as the only principled candidate in this election. We hope other branches will do the same."
Angie Birtill - Kilburn T&G Branch 1/724

"Meetings around the country reveal that most working class pensioners are still in shock at the policies and actions of the Blair-Brown government. High-hopes that the Labour victory in 1997 would mean a return to the basic principles of social and democratic rights at the heart of the mass movement which returned Labour in 1945, have been shattered. For the first time we hear many working class pensioners and life-long trade unionists and Labour supporters say that they now have no party and cannot even bring themselves to vote. John McDonnell's challenge - his campaign for socialist policies - addresses this crisis of confidence. It opens the way for widespread discussion and action, not only during, but beyond the Labour Party leadership election as workers face the urgent task of reconstructing their own party. That's why I support John McDonnell."
Dot Gibson - Vice-President of National Pensioners' Convention (pc)

"I support the John McDonnell leadership challenge mainly because he is the only one who is fighting on an anti-privatisation platform. Privatisation is destroying our public services, and will do for years to come. A good example is a large secondary school laying off 50% of the SEN support due to budget deficit, but paying a fixed 13% of its budget straight to a private PFI contractor. This year's roll fell further as parents vote with their feet. Bristol tax payers will be paying for 25 years for a half empty school. I also support all his other policies, as do a large amount of Labour UNISON members at this branch."
Steve Mills - Chair of Bristol UNISON (pc)

"From tuition fees to 'anti-social behaviour' crackdowns, New Labour in all its guises has shown nothing but contempt for young people. In contrast, John McDonnell stands for a living wage, for free education, for workers' rights, civil liberties and peace. All students and young workers who want a socialist society of freedom and equality should support his campaign."
Sofie Buckland, National Union of Students NEC (pc)

"I am supporting John McDonnell for leader of the Labour Party because of his consistent and principled support for policies in the interests of working people, such as the public ownership of public services and improving trade union rights." Maria Exall - CWU NEC (pc)

"I am supporting John McDonnell's candidacy for Leader of the Labour Party and for Prime Minister because he is committed to public services, publicly funded. A McDonnell government would be one which would reverse the steady drift to the right that we have been suffering from since the 1970s and would put issues of equality and social justice back at the forefront of the political agenda - where they belong."
Vino Sangarapillai, Branch Secretary Woodside Ward Labour Party, Hornsey & Wood Green CLP (pc)

"I am backing John McDonnell MP for Labour Party leader because he stands for CWU policies including 100% public ownership of the Post Office and a Trade Union Freedom Bill."
Gary Heather - CWU Telecoms & Financial Services Executive (pc)

"I am endorsing John in his bid to be a contender in the forthcoming leadership election because I believe he stands for many of the values and policies that still matter to many within the Labour Party. With John as a candidate we will be able to have the long delayed debate on the future direction of the Labour Party."
Cllr Joanne Bennett, Trafford

"I will be nominating John McDonnell for the leadership of the Labour Party. As the Blair era draws to a close, I think it is a vital we have a proper debate about the future of the Labour Party. The best way for that to happen is for there to be a contest for the leadership.

"I have never believed it would be in the interests of the Party for there to be a coronation. John McDonnell is the only one of the possible leadership candidates that voted against the Iraq war. John stands for a complete re-think of our foreign policy - I believe that this is one of the many changes Party members want to see".
Diane Abbott MP

LEFTY WHO'S JUST RIGHT

"Do you oppose spending billions on weapons of mass destruction?

Do you favour tougher employment protection laws? Do you want an immediate halt to the privatisation of public services? Do you back a considerably higher minimum wage and state pension?

Do you think identity cards would be an expensive intrusion into our privacy? And did you oppose the Iraq war from the start?

If the answer is yes, then lefty John McDonnell might be the Labour leader for you.

Now, I have a sneaking admiration for the tenacity of his fellow lefty, ex-environment minister Michael Meacher.

But he voted for the Iraq war and ID cards, to take just two examples, and is splitting the Labour left. John McDonnell might never get the required 44 nominations to run for the Labour crown but, with Meacher in the race, he's certain to fail.

Meacher had his chance as a minister and should step back gracefully.

McDonnell is a tireless lefty campaigner and like any challenger, Blairite or otherwise, would almost certainly lose to Gordon Brown.

But if there is to be a contest and not a coronation, far better the Premier-in-waiting is challenged from the left as well as the right."
Kevin Maguire - The Mirror (18th April 2007)

"There is an urgent need for re-direction of Labour Party Policy and that requires the Party to be led by a person who is dedicated to the principles upon which the Party was founded and away from the Neo-Conservative free market policies being followed by the present leadership. The only person who has declared his intention to stand for Leadership who can point the Labour Party in its correct logistical direction is John McDonnell. John is a diligent MP, who has been mainly responsible for the creation of Parliamentary Trade Union Groups and has taken practical action to ensure the continuity of the vital link between the Trade Unions and the Parliamentary Labour Party."
Bob Wareing MP

"I joined the Labour Party because I wanted to change society. For me, as an active trade unionist, John McDonnell is the only candidate in this election that has a consistent track record of supporting trade unionists in struggle and offers the hope of changing society in favour of ordinary working people. I am happy to endorse John McDonnell as a candidate for Labour leader."
Stuart Watkin - Treasurer of TGWU 1/427 Parliamentary Staff Branch (pc)

"John McDonnell's campaign for the Labour Party leadership has given many, many activists confidence and hope for the first time in a lot of years. I am proud to be supporting this challenge to reclaim our party for 'real Labour' and for a socialist Prime Minister. A contest for the leadership, involving genuine debate about policy and principles, can only strengthen our party and lead to better government. John4Leader!"
Dr. Duncan Hall, Labour historian and Vice-Chair of Skipton and Ripon CLP (pc)

"I am backing John for leader because he is the only candidate offering real alternatives to the policies which have cost the Labour Party so much goodwill and support in recent years. On Iraq, privatisation of public services, civil liberties and a whole range of issues he reflects what both Labour Party members and the majority of the electorate want to see happen"
Neil Gerrard MP

"At a well attended meeting on Saturday 14th April, delegates from London Trade Union Councils unanimously agreed to support John McDonnell's campaign for the Labour leadership. We believe that John is the only candidate that believes in Socialist principles and in which Trade Union members can trust to support the needs of the many in leadership and not just during a campaign."
Mike Houghton, Secretary of Greater London Association of Trades Union Councils

"I support John for a simple reason: he supports the demands of the labour movement and works tirelessly for them. No trade unionist could ever accuse John of not backing them to the hilt when they needed him to exert pressure on their behalf in Parliament. Now it is the turn of trade unionists to back John."
Daniel Nichols - Labour Link Officer, UNISON LFEPA

"I support John as he believes in the radical redistribution of wealth. He also supports the re-nationalisation of the railways and the building of more council homes - two policies which have been totallly ignored by the current leadership. He has my support."
Ian McDonald, Secretary of Solihull & Meriden Labour Party (pc)

"With the support of the majority of my constituency wards, I will be nominating John McDonnell."
Ann Cryer MP

"John is a socialist. He's the closest politician I've met to Tony Benn who is someone who has been a magnificent class fighter and a tremendous socialist for many years. John has been so resolute on the issue of the illegal war in Iraq, and his work with the trade union movement - particularly the need for the repeal of the anti-trade union laws - that he's the obvious choice for all socialists to support to be leader of the Labour party."
Alex McFadden - President of Merseyside TUC

"I cannot profess to have known John McDonnell for many years, but I can provide the reasons why I believe John should be supported in his campaign for the Leadership of Labour Party.

"John attended our branch AGM in 2006 . I was impressed by what he had to say especially his wholehearted support for our National Pension campaign. After the meeting members came to me and said if members of Labour Party spoke like that they would vote Labour next time.

"John has returned to speak in support of our Fremantle care workers campaign and put down an early day motion (1166) highlighting the worst excesses of privatisation of public services.

"But, is not just because I support the issues John campaign is championing, that I am happy to support his campaign it is because I feel this could be the last chance for working people to have a real choice in the elections.

"Those in the Party who don't want an election or are ashamed to speak openly about the issues central to John's campaign, are deluding themselves.

"There needs to be an open debate within the Party about the direction we must go.

"Our future is bleak if do not learn from the mistakes of the past 10 years. Whilst we have made some changes there is much more to do.

"Voters are already voting with their feet! The electorate are tired of sleaze and Cameron is no different, but if we don't show voters we are different Cameron will walk the next General Elections. Those in denial will shake their heads, but their complacency could lead to another 20 years of a Tory government!

"Lastly, the other candidates, put them side by side on UNISON policies and there can be only one choice!

Vote for John McDonnell"
John Burgess - Branch Secretary of Barnet UNISON / Labour party member

"I am supporting John as I believe that he is the only person who will put some clear red water between us and the Tories. At the moment, there is no difference between the three main parties, it is my belief that after 10 years of governent people want a change, but not the Tories back in. John will gove that change with his refreshing Socialist manifesto. It is mine and the of the Clacton CLP that McDonnell is the only person who will secure an historic fourth election victory!"
Max Morris, Clacton CLP Youth and Students officer, Student Union leader and Tendring and essex Youth Assembly elected member

"As a deputy head teacher in Halifax I have seen how the labour promises of '97 have gone awry. The hope widespread amongst my profession has, I feel, dissipated to be replaced by a manifest depression and disillusionment. John McDonnell has the policies to arrest this downward spiral and reinvigorate the profession. These include: his commitment to scrapping tuition fees, and academies; the end of selection; the reconstitution of Ofsted as a support and advisory service and the end of league tables and SATS tests. These are the policies teachers, children and parents want. These are the policies that would re-flatten the playing field within education and ensure that all children are valued and supported and given a much fairer chance whatever their socio-economic background. It is for these reasons I wholeheartedly support his leadership campaign."
Johnny Socha, deputy head teacher in Halifax

"I am endorsing John McDonnell MP for leader, as I believe the Labour Party should have a proper leadership election and debate the issues on the direction of the Labour Party for the future and most importantly to win a fourth term and stop David Cameron's Tories destroying communities and much needed public services. "I feel John McDonnell's polices are the right ones for the Labour Party and for the betterment for the ordinary hard working man and woman, scraping Trident, bringing the troops home from the war in Iraq, Trade Union rights, higher minimum wage, saving council housing and public services from privatisation and creating a mass membership Labour Party."
Brian Barton - GMB shop steward

"On behalf of the Gate Gourmet sacked workers, we would like to give our backing to John McDonnell to be the leader of the Labour Party. "From the beginning of our dispute he came down to our picket line to support us. "We have been locked out for 21 months now and he is supporting us still. "We expect the next government to stand against these venture capitalists that have destroyed our jobs and done their best to destroy our lives. "This is why we are supporting John McDonnell as we are sure he will stand for socialist policies against these greedy bosses."
Parmjit Bains - on behalf of the Gate Gourmet sacked workers

"The FBU Executive Council, after consulting their members, decided unanimously to back John McDonnell's campaign. John is the only candidate who has consistently supported trade unions in their campaigns; has opposed privatisation; and has opposed the disastrous war in Iraq. As a Labour Party member, I believe that it will be a scandal if I am denied the opportunity to vote for the only potential candidate in this election who has a proud track record of speaking up for socialism and opposing the 'New Labour' project which has done so much damage to our movement."
Mick Shaw - FBU President

"Harrow TUC is pleased and proud to associate itself with the campaign to elect John McDonnell as the next leader of the Labour Party. Harrow TUC is convinced that John represents the interests of working people and their unions. John has also been consistent in his condemnation of the present governments foreign policy and attacks on Iraq and Afghanistan. John supports the repeal of Anti-Trade Union legislation which was introduced by Thatcher and disgracefully maintained by Blair. Harrow TUC is and will remain politically independent but we clearly cannot remain indifferent to the issues of the day in the wider labour movement it is because of this mutual interest that we call upon our Labour MPS to support the only meaningful socialist candidate for Labour leader John McDonnell."
Harrow TUC

"This AGM calls upon every Labour MP who respects the Party and its democratic ideals to ensure by his/her nomination that the Party's individual and affiliated members have the option of voting for a candidate who supports the Labour Party's own conference policies. This will in practice mean that democratically-minded Labour MPs will need to unite around a single candidate with a consistently solid voting record. On this basis, this AGM now calls on Labour MPs to nominate John McDonnell MP for the post of Party leader. In the interests of our Party's future, this AGM calls upon all democrats in the Labour Party to start bringing the appropriate pressure to bear on MPs through their CLPs and affiliated organisations."
Campaign for Labour Party Democracy

"I would like to endotse John McDonnell's campaign for leadership of the Labour Party. After all the hopes that people took from the defeat of the Tories ten years ago, Blairism has brought widespread disillusion and confusion among orfinary working people. It has been a disaster for world peace, and for the labour movement.
"We need socialist policies to unite the working class, restore our democratic rights, rescue the health service, stop the cancer of privatisation, and tackle inequality, which has grown worse than ever under this government. We need to build decent, available housing for all, to offer dignity for the old and a future for young people, and to halt the rise of racialism and the far-Right which are feeding on people's frustration and despair that things can get better for everyone.
"We need a socialist international policy that isn't based on imperialist power politics; a policy that will put an end to occupation in Iraq and Palestine, assist in achieving a just and democratic peace in the Middle East, and stop endless proxy wars and massacres in Africa.
"We need to switch the massive resources squandered in the crazy world arms race to international co-operation in tackling poverty, disease and the dangers to our global environment.
"Above all, to make a start, we need to end the widespread feeling that "politicians are all the same"; and to restore confidence that people can change things, and as John says, "another world is possible". That's why I support John McDonnell's campaign."
Charlie Pottins, executive member Brent TUC, and national committee member, Jewish Socialists' Group (pc)

"This AGM calls upon every Labour MP who respects the Party and its democratic ideals to ensure by his/her nomination that the Party's individual and affiliated members have the option of voting for a candidate who supports the Labour Party's own conference policies. This will in practice mean that democratically-minded Labour MPs will need to unite around a single candidate with a consistently solid voting record. On this basis, this AGM now calls on Labour MPs to nominate John McDonnell MP for the post of Party leader. In the interests of our Party's future, this AGM calls upon all democrats in the Labour Party to start bringing the appropriate pressure to bear on MPs through their CLPs and affiliated organisations."
Campaign for Labour Party Democracy

"I truly believe that John has what it takes to be the Leader of the Party/Prime Minister. The reason is quite simple he is the Best person for the Job in hand he is honest and has integrity. He cares passionately about people and the environment we all have to live in and could never be swayed from his socialist principles. Also he is one of the rare breed of men that truly believes in equality it was he who encouraged me to become an activist and a Councillor. Hayes and Harlington has flourished since the day John came our way. I ask you to support John McDonnell."
Cllr. Lynne Allen

"As a young woman I want go into the workplace knowing that I'll be recognised as the equal of my male colleagues; I want my mother to retire on a decent pension; I want to be able to make my own choices about my own body; I want to know that all women who suffer abuse will get the support they deserve; I want my daughters to grow up without having to worry about any of these things. That's why I'm supporting John McDonnell."
Claire Chalmers (Livingston CLP)

"The rapid pace of fragmentation and privatization taking place in the NHS is frightening and so, like many, I applaud John's EDM calling for a Moratorium on the NHS. As a health worker, as a woman, as a trade unionist I find his beliefs refreshing and inspiring."
Grace Drewell, South London & Maudsley NHS trust

"Supporting John McDonnell in the campaign for Labour leadership is the only way the people of Britain can regain their political voice, having felt oppressed by 10 years of war, privatisation and deception under New Labour. I know John would be able to provide for young people in this country through his opposition of tuition fees and his aims to defend civil liberties and provide a better minimum wage for young workers."
Gwen Grahl, Local Council Worker, Newham Council

"John McDonnell inspired me to carrying on fighting within the Labour Party for a more left wing agenda and try to convince younger men and women that there is a value to being in the Labour Party."
Jenny Lennox, Manchester and Withington CLP

"I support John McDonnell because of what he stands for, his amazing work ethic and fearlessness against what must be terrible pressure to conform to the Blairites in Labour. He always takes the right position in my opinion which is against the war in Iraq, In defense of Venezuela, against privatization, fair living wages, free and accessible healthcare and education and against exploitation. He is like a breath of fresh air in a world of political halitosis!"
Melanie MacDonald, Hands Off Venezuela

"I am supporting John because he stands up for women workers, be they striking catering workers at Gate Gourmet or low paid and undervalued public sector staff. His campaign is about challenging injustice and disrespect at work and organising all workers to reclaim their Labour party."
Louise McMullan, Vauxhall CLP

"As a young woman working in education, I support John because he is the only labour leadership candidate prepared to speak out against the academies programme and the creeping privatisation of education."
Charlynne Pullen, research officer in education

"'I am supporting John because of his of his policy pledges. I know he will stand by his pledges because of his proven record within the PLP. He also wants to strengthen the links with the trade union movement and reconnect with working people."
Mary Simpson (TGWU personal capacity)