McMahon’s message of hope in hard times

Oldham Council leader Jim McMahon pictured with (from the left) Labour Party deputy leader Tom Watson, Islington councillor Alice Perry and newly-elected Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn

OLDHAM Council leader Jim McMahon got people nationwide talking yesterday when he told the Labour party conference how “hope in hard times” is being delivered in the borough.

Councillor McMahon, also leader of the Labour Group of the Local Government Association, addressed the Brighton conference and discussed several issues facing the borough and local government in general, including the importance of standing firm against cuts “as the last line of defence against this callous and short-sighted government”.

He said: “It is a last line of defence that provides services for people who most need it. Vital community facilities have gone – community centres, libraries and police stations. But in all that we are delivering hope in hard times. Not simply getting by, but getting on. Creating jobs, building new homes and shielding the community from the worst of the government cuts.

“I govern Oldham true to our values, and it’s personal. With two young boys — and over 50,000 other children — I have a duty to make our town the best it can be.”

Councillor McMahon said welfare cuts were snatching money from the poorest members of society. By the end of 2017 Oldham Council will have had over £205 million taken from its budget - over half its funding.

Councillor McMahon also spoke about devolution.

He said: “The Conservatives don’t believe in devolution the way we do — they aren’t devolving powers, they are devolving cuts.

Councillor McMahon also welcomed newly-elected Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn: “Congratulations to Jeremy,” he said.. “His election has shifted politics in Westminster to an inclusive and more full-on campaign against austerity. This is welcomed by Labour councillors. We are keen to support the Parliamentary Labour Party and members to make that shift.”

Councillor McMahon caused a stir on social media as people all over the country talked about his speech, which was shown live on the BBC.

Highbury West councillor Andy Hull tweeted: “Loud applause for Councillor Jim McMahon, talking of protecting his two boys — and 50,000 other Oldham kids — from Tory cuts.”

Bury councillor Sandra Walmsley said: “Inspiring words from Councillor Jim McMahon on Labour leading the way on devolution in local government.”