June 25, 2019

Richmond Park Constituency Labour party has selected Giles Oakley as its candidate to contest the forthcoming by-election in East Sheen on July 18^th.

An East Sheen resident since 1978, Oakley joined the Labour party in 1964 and has been a member ever since.  He worked for the BBC for more than 30 years, making programmes on politics, history, the arts and social issues, several of them award winning. For several years he was Deputy Chair of the Campaign for Press and Broadcasting Freedom.  A long-standing advocate on social issues, he is currently involved in local campaigns and initiatives to help tackle homelessness.

Commenting on his selection as Labour’s candidate, Oakley said:

“I believe in the core Labour values of solidarity, social justice and internationalism, all things that should bring people together. It’s vital we have strong Labour voices in this community standing up for our values.  Labour doesn’t currently have any councillors in Richmond Borough.  This means key issues such as affordable and social housing, social care, NHS funding, homelessness, reduced public services and adequate resourcing of local schools are not receiving the attention and action they should by the council.

“Sometimes a lone voice in a Council chamber can make a significant impact simply by articulating ideas in ways that force people to see issues from a different angle. I will always try to find common ground and create consensus, while never abandoning my own radical views.  As a councillor, I would work to forge alliances issue by issue in order to challenge and hold accountable the people making decisions impacting most on those who have the least.  I will always speak up for what I believe is right and fair.

“My late mother was the greatest influence in my life, and I can remember her taking me to Labour Party meetings in the 1940s. She would point out Clement Attlee, the Prime Minister in the great 1945 Labour Government, who lived nearby. The NHS and Welfare State were established in his time, the finest creations of the 20^th Century. I passionately believe we must continue to protect these great institutions in the 21^st century.  That is one of the many reasons I am in favour of a confirmatory Referendum on the Brexit deal and I will campaign night and day for this country to stay in the EU.

“If I am elected, I will work hard for the good of all the different communities in the borough of Richmond.  And I would represent everyone in Sheen, regardless of political affiliation, or whether they had voted for me.”

Giles has been married to Hilary, an award-winning landscape gardener, for 40 years. They have one daughter, Kat, who works with various charities helping the homeless.

Promoted by Alec Lever on behalf of Giles Oakley, both at 6 Arundel Terrace, London SW13 8DP