THE conflict in Gaza has given rise to horrific devastation and suffering, with huge numbers of children killed and horrendous food and medical shortages. 

I will continue to support an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, rapid unimpeded humanitarian aid to Gaza, and urgent progress towards a two-state solution.  I voted for this on 21st February. 

Back in Britain, I still search for rays of hope, despite the difficulties Newham families continue to endure.  On Budget Day, 6th March, people in Newham need to hear that the Tory Government will start acting fairly and fostering genuine hope. 

We all recognise the widespread poverty afflicting our communities. 

It’s become normal to see people in their work clothes, including NHS staff, queuing for food parcels and our public services at breaking-point after a decade-and-a-half of cuts. 

We desperately need the Government to begin urgent action to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.  This Budget must offer meaningful support and a change of direction.  I’ve no confidence the Government will do the right thing, though. Newham has been let down before. 

Let’s hope this Budget is the last delivered by a Tory Chancellor for many years. 

Britain needs a Labour Government siding with communities like ours and supporting the most vulnerable.  By next February, the electorate will have delivered its own verdict and decided which party will lead Britain in the years ahead. 

To me, there’s hope in that. 

When Jeremy Hunt gets to his feet to deliver this Budget, he has the opportunity here and now to do the right thing for struggling families.  We need a Budget that tackles poverty, the housing crisis, NHS waiting lists and cash-starved schools. 

Hunt owes that to parents who cannot afford their children’s school uniforms, the elderly who cannot heat their homes and thousands of Newham families stuck in temporary accommodation. 

A Budget that delivers investment in decent jobs, businesses, public services and housing is essential.  There should be no gimmicks, political stunts or make-believe tax cuts. 

The Chancellor has no excuse for putting the political fortunes of his own party above communities like ours. 

We need genuine change now.