Commenting on the resignation of seven Labour MPs earlier today, Hertsmere Labour Leader Cllr Jeremy Newmark said:

“I am receptive and incredibly sensitive to all of the concerns that they have raised.  I have spoken out and campaigned relentlessly for the Party to do more to tackle antisemitism.  I have worked closely with a number of these MPs on this and other issues.  I know this will not be a decision that they have taken lightly.  I disagree with their decision but I also understand it.  I will take no part in the shameful vitriolic personal attacks that are being levelled at them today.

Given the tumultuous state of national politics it is clear that Labour represents the only viable alternative to a bungled Tory Brexit coupled with more Tory cuts and austerity.

But, right now, together with our Councillors, candidates and members I have just launched our local election campaign in Hertsmere.  As local Labour Leader and as a local Councillor, local issues must be my focus.  It would be wrong for national politics to detract from this important opportunity to debate and decide the future of our Borough.   Locally, Hertsmere Labour is the only alternative to the dogmatic, hardline politics of the current Tory leadership of our Councils which takes local people for granted and prioritises the interests of wealthy developers instead.  That is why we won’t be distracted from our campaign to take control of this Borough and build a better for local people on 2 May 2019.”