Hackney Communities a strong example of 'London United'

6.12.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 6th May 2004

Simon Hughes MP and Sarah Ludford MEP joining the children at Side by Side nursery

Leading Liberal Democrats today (6th May) visited Jewish and Muslim community organizations in Hackney, to discuss London's great wealth in diversity and the important issue of community cohesion.

The visit included Satmar Girls School, Side by Side, a nursery catering for both disabled and able body children and those with special needs, Taywid Boys School and Cazenove Muslim Community Centre.

London's Liberal Democrat MEP Baroness Sarah Ludford and Mayoral candidate Simon Hughes MP were joined by leading candidate for the European Parliament, Jonathan Fryer, local candidate for the London Assembly Cllr Terry Stacy, and local councillor Ian Sharer.

Said Sarah:

"In Hackney we can see some of the best examples of people of different faith living side by side with one street for example containing several Muslim community organizations, including a mosque that used to be a synagogue and also a range of Jewish community organizations.

"Being comfortable with diversity is something on which London has much to teach our European neighbours. A 'London United' at its best can be a beacon for integration and inclusion."

Simon Hughes added:

"London's diversity is something of which we should be proud. My kind of London is a place where everybody - whatever their ability, background, character or circumstances - feels they can fully enjoy their capital. The young people we met today were a strong reminder of how together we can build a greater London."