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MAKING A STAND: Lee Jasper

THE FORMER race advisor to Ken Livingstone is to stand as the next MP for Croydon North.

Lee Jasper, who was responsible for the development, enactment and promotion of equalities policies at City Hall, promises to “speak out for the poor, the elderly, the vulnerable, highlight and challenge the shared consensus on cuts,” if he is successful as the Respect party candidate in next month’s by-election.

The Brixton-based community activist announced his selection on Twitter over the weekend.

“I am delighted to have been selected now lets roll up our sleeves & do the work. No more talk, time for action,” he wrote.

Respect Party leader George Galloway said of his candidate: “If I could have composed the perfect candidate to fight this seat then it would be Lee Jasper.

“Lee has a stellar track record in activism and community involvement. As well as being a crucial member of Ken Livingstone's team in governing London, as Director for Policing and Equalities. His record of public service is unequalled.”

Jasper added: “Following George's amazing victory in Bradford West I welcome the opportunity to offer the people of Croydon North a viable alternative to the tired and failed politics of the mainstream political parties.

“The responsibility for the economic crisis lies with banks and not the people of Croydon North and yet they are seeing their services cut and the welfare reforms are causing real hardship and acute distress.”

He continued: “I will be a minority of those articulating that there is another way. I will be arguing against the austerity programme and for investment in public services and jobs. I am looking forward to taking these argument to the voters of Croydon North.'

The Croydon North by-election is likely to take place on November 29.