KAREN BUCK MP’S FUNDRAISING DINNER

Karen Buck’s annual fundraising dinner is becoming something of an institution.  Held last Friday in the excellent Phoenix Palace Chinese restaurant in Marylebone, this year’s event lived up to its promise.  Top of the bill Alastair Campbell was witty, funny and occasionally deadly serious.  He has become one of the best speakers for this kind of event, and on this occasion donated the profit made on his books sold during the evening to Karen’s campaign.  He takes an especial interest in the constituency as his partner Fiona’s mother Audrey Millar has been activist for decades.

The final message of his speech – that we will win a fourth term but to do so have to defend our record and be much more aggressive in attacking the Tories – is well taken. Compere Mathew Taylor, who did the same job last year, gave a great performance.  If I ever need someone for that kind of thing, he’s the  person I would ask.  In addition to Karen herself, the other speakers were Paul Dimoldenberg, Leader of the Labour Group on Westminster Council, and your truly on the European elections (June 4 this year). 

My thanks to the organisers for this opportunity.  Since 150 people attended with several excellent auction and raffle prizes, the dinner will have brought in much needed campaign finance.  With boundary changes, Karen’s seat Westminster North is now marginal.  She’s a great MP, very popular and very hard working.  We need her back.