Diane Abbott reveals Mandelson"s role in hindering black MPs

Diane Abbott, the longest-serving black member of Parliament, has recounted her experiences as a Labour Party candidate in her memoir, 'A Woman Like Me.' She highlights a significant lack of support from the party's leadership, particularly from Peter Mandelson, who was the director of communications at the time. Abbott recalls her attempts to secure media training before her appearance on BBC Question Time in 1986, which were met with indifference. Despite reaching out multiple times, she received no assistance, leading to her feeling unprepared and anxious before the broadcast. In her book, Abbott expresses her belief that the Labour leadership was ambivalent towards black candidates, viewing them as liabilities while simultaneously failing to provide necessary support. She also criticizes former party leader Neil Kinnock, suggesting that he regarded black MPs as an embarrassment and neglected their concerns. This lack of recognition and celebration of their achievements left Abbott and her fellow black MPs feeling marginalized within the party. Mandelson has denied Abbott's claims, asserting that any lack of support was due to her political stance rather than her ethnicity. He described her accusations as insulting and absurd, defending the Labour staff's commitment to equality. The contrasting narratives highlight ongoing tensions within the party regarding race and representation. Abbott's memoir sheds light on the challenges faced by black politicians in the Labour Party during the late 1980s, emphasizing the need for greater support and acknowledgment of their contributions. Her reflections serve as a critique of the party's historical treatment of diversity and inclusion.