PM praises generous Geordies
THERESA May yesterday praised the Geordie generosity of those raising cash for a Tyneside foodbank.
MP Chi Onwurah wore Magpies colours in the House of Commons as she told the Prime Minister that charity ToonAid and Newcastle United fans had raised more than £50,000 for the West End Foodbank in her Newcastle Central constituency over Christmas.
And although only the most eagle-eyed would have spotted it, she accessorized her black and white shawl with blue earrings to represent the ToonAid symbol of a blue heart.
Ms Onwurah also had a political message as she said one constituent with severe illnesses was forced to depend on foodbanks after having his benefits cut.
She asked Theresa May: “Will the Prime Minister congratulate the people of Newcastle on their generosity, and will she explain why it was necessary?”
And she told MPs: “Over Christmas, ToonAid and Newcastle United football fans raised more than £50,000 for the West End food bank in my constituency ... helping to feed people like John, who, despite having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, arthritis, dyspepsia, prostatism, type 2 diabetes and anxiety and depression, was sanctioned for not trying hard enough to find work.”
Mrs May said: “I applaud all those who have given their time voluntarily and raised money through their activities across the board. She has given a specific example of the work of people in Newcastle. I commend people who raise money for causes.”
The Prime Minister said Ms Onwurah should raise John’s case with Esther McVey, the Secretary of State with Work and Pensions, and it would be looked into.
Speaking afterwards, Ms Onwurah confirmed she had deliberately dressed in Newcastle United’s colours, adding: “We’re not allowed to wear slogans in Parliament - otherwise I’d have worn my ToonAid tee shirt.”