The suspension of Ms Diane Abbott

Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer MP
Prime Minister
10 Downing Street
London
SW1A 2AA

22 July 2025

RE: The suspension of Ms Diane Abbott

Dear Prime Minister

We were deeply concerned by the recent decision to suspend Diane Abbott from the Labour Party. We write to you on behalf of the Black Equity Organisation, a national, Black-led civil rights organisation, that exists to dismantle systemic racism and advance justice and equity for Black people in the UK.

We are a politically neutral organisation, however we stand by our commitment to advocate for Black and marginalised communities. We are compelled to speak when fairness and justice are denied to them. Suspending Diane Abbott MP for a second time will prompt widespread concern and contemplation, particularly within Black communities, as well as those committed to equity, anti-racism, and a fair democratic process.

Unfortunately, this second suspension forces us to confront, yet again, the uncomfortable truth of the lived experience of Black women in public life, which is often different, as they are held to varying standards. The suspension of Britain’s first Black woman MP, without a transparent process for resolution, risks reinforcing that perception.

It is profoundly troubling that a pioneering Black leader, and Mother of the House, who has endured decades of racist and misogynistic abuse, and who helped lead the way for others in political life, is now subject to disproportionate treatment. Her work is testament to her commitment to equality.

We are calling on you and the Labour Party to:

• Ensure full transparency in the disciplinary process, with a clear explanation of the rationale for Ms Abbott’s renewed suspension and the standards applied.
• Uphold consistency in how all MPs are investigated and sanctioned, regardless of race, gender, or political affiliation.

The Labour Party holds itself to the principles of fairness, equality and justice. We are asking that these be applied in the process now, and urge all political parties to ensure disciplinary procedures are applied fairly with a commitment to compassion, as well as clarity.

Diane Abbott should be heard and treated with respect. Your Party has an opportunity to show leadership that brings Black and marginalised communities together – a step that would be widely welcomed.

Yours sincerely,

Black Equity Organisation

Timi Okuwa, Black Equity Organisation
David Weaver, Chair of Operation Black Vote
Yvonne Field, CEO of Ubele Initiative
Shabna Begum, CEO of Runnymede
Matthew Johnson, CEO of ROTA
Jeremy Crook, CEO of ARE
Jabeer Butt, CEO of Race Equality Foundation
Charles Kwaku-Odoi, CEO of Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN)

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