Harry Cohen

Labour MP Leyton and Wanstead

Date of birth

10 December 1949

Political profile

Harry Cohen has been a Labour MP since 1983 without ever moving off the backbenches but he is one of the most active and effective members of the Commons.

A former local government accountant, he is on the left of the Labour Party, and voted against military action in Iraq.

He has a strong interest in international human rights and defence issues, and has served on the Commons defence select committee.

Mr Cohen is an occasional rebel against the Labour whip, especially on constitutional and civil liberties issues.

He is also a keen supporter of animal welfare and supports a full ban on hunting.

The Leyton and Wanstead MP has a particular passion for introducing topical bills; he attempted to secure a ban on ceremonies of exorcism being performed on children after the abuse of Anna Climbie, and is campaigning for Jeffery Archer's peerage to be removed.

Contact

Commons office: 020 7219 4137
Constituency office: 020 7219 6376
Email: [e-mail]