News

Manchester Represented At National ‘People’s Assembly Against Austerity’ Meeting

0 135

Words by Neil Harrison
Representatives from Manchester meet Owen Jones at the People’s Assembly in London on Saturday

REPRESENTATIVES FROM MANCHESTER WERE AMONG a 4000-strong crowd at ‘The People’s Assembly Against Austerity’ in Westminster, London at the weekend.
The event, which made headline news, was attended by numerous political figures and activists – including Tony Benn, Ken Livingstone and Unite General Secretary Len McClusky, who called for ‘mass industrial action’.
Among the speakers was Stockport’s own Owen Jones (pictured with members of the Manchester delegation). The Chavs author and Independent columnist has been touring the country speaking at local People’s Assembly meetings, the largest of which was held at Manchester’s Central Hall, for months. He had this to say ahead of his speech on Saturday morning:
“It’s an incredible turnout. This is the biggest anti-austerity meeting since the [financial] crisis began. What this is about doing is building a united, broad movement. This is just the beginning – it’s a launchpad.”
“In the months ahead we’ll see local groups protesting [and taking] direct action. We’re going to send a loud, clear message to the government – enough is enough.” 
Attendee of both the regional and national meetings, David West, of Manchester, added:
“Manchester hosted the largest People’s Assembly in the country before today, with over 700 people in attendance, so it is only fitting that we are well represented here in London.”
“There are groups here from Salford University, local councils, Manchester students, local bedroom tax campaigns and many other groups affected by the cuts.”
To find out more about what went on at the People’s Assembly in London click here
Neil Harrison is studying Social History at Manchester Metropolitan University. He is an aspiring journalist and a terrible guitar player. Read his blog LooseRiver and follow him on Twitter @LooseRiver

About the author / 

aAh!

aAh! Magazine is Manchester Metropolitan University's arts and culture magazine.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More News Stories:

  • Ten love songs that aren’t just about heartbreak

    Featured image: James Kelly  It seems we’re all unanimous in saying that love is one of those mystifying, uncontrollable forces of nature, and this is not a new sentiment. See the entire discography of music and poetic works dating back to ancient times and earlier (or your ‘sad’ playlist – which we all have) for proof. Despite…

  • A Complete Unknown film review – An enigmatic portrayal of a musical luminary

    Featured image: Press A Complete Unknown is an evocative musical commentary and expertly crafted biopic following the life of Bob Dylan as he transitioned from acoustic to electric guitar. For what is both an intimate portrayal of genius and a harsh critique of character, both Timothée Chalamet and James Mangold hit the nail on the…

  • 5 tips for sustainable student living

    Featured illustration: Ruby Sharp 1. Mindful clothes shopping The fashion industry significantly contributes to overconsumption, with 92 million tonnes of clothing ending up in landfill each year. To be more sustainable, clothes consider buying and selling clothes on platforms like Vinted. These apps provide a great opportunity to make extra cash while keeping your clothes…

  • Love Story Movie Marathon: Top 10 films to watch this Valentine’s Day

    Featured image: Loe Moshkovska Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to break the bank. Grab your popcorn and blankets to enjoy a laid-back movie night. Whether you’re cozying up to a loved one or having a movie night for galantines, we have you covered with the best watches for this Valentine’s Day. These romantic movies are set…