Diane Abbott

Date of birth

27 September 1953

Political profile

Diane Abbott attracted publicity when she entered Parliament in 1987 as Britain's first black female MP.

She has remained one of the most well-known MPs among the general public, with her outspoken views ensuring she is never far from sight.

In the last Parliament she was one of the most rebellious Labour MPs, consistently voting against the government on issues like welfare cuts and military action.

She comes from a left wing background, as a member of the Campaign group, and retains the left's opposition to the single European currency as undemocratic.

This is one of few political opinions she shares with Michael Portillo, opposite whom she acted when both were at school. A former journalist and press officer for Lambeth Council, she is the only black Labour MP to remain committed to the idea of black sections in the Labour Party.

Contact

020 7219 5062