Navin Shah, current London Assembly Member for Harrow and Brent, has been selected as the Labour Party candidate for the seat of Harrow East in the 2017 General Election.

This is a popular move as Navin is a well recognised and well respected activist who is a longstanding resident of Harrow with a proven track-record.

During 40 years as a Harrow resident Navin has actively worked with the voluntary sector including community and anti-racist groups. He was a Councillor in Harrow East for 20 years, including serving as Leader of Harrow Council; since 2008 he has been the London Assembly Member representing Brent and Harrow. Navin’s wife Cllr Rekha Shah represents Wealdstone ward in Harrow East and is the current Mayor of Harrow and his daughter Cllr Aneka Shah-Levy is a Harrow East councillor.

This is a strong move by the Labour Party and a serious challenge to the incumbent Bob Blackman. This will be a rerun of 2008 when, against all odds, Navin Shah defeated Bob Blackman who was then the Assembly Member for Brent and Harrow.

Navin Shah speaking about his selection said:

“I am deeply honoured to go forward as Labour’s candidate for Harrow East for the forthcoming General Election. As a long serving resident of some 40 years in Harrow I see this as an opportunity to represent Harrow’s diverse community in Parliament and fight their corner as I have done throughout my community and political work”.

"I’m passionate about our National Health Service which is under threat from Conservatives; Social Care and Mental Health need greater attention and resources; We need a serious programme of house building as pledged by Labour to address the housing crisis and I’m opposed to the conservative cuts to education funding. I also want to ensure that there is support for Harrow’s small and medium enterprises which have been hit by the changes in business rates. On Brexit negotiations, I will be firmly opposed to Theresa May having a blank cheque. Have no doubt, I will stand up for the best interests of Harrow and the UK.”

“I pledge to continue to work proactively with Harrow Council and the Mayor of London for better and enhanced services for the people of Harrow and London. Throughout my career I have fought, alongside our community and faith groups, to meet the needs of our diverse communities. I’m proud of my record in the areas of equality, justice and fighting against all forms of discrimination. I look forward to having further engagement with all our communities and leaders for an ongoing dialogue to best understand and serve Harrow’s communities.”

Promoted by Keith Ferry on behalf of Navin Shah both of Harrow East Labour Party, 18 Byron Road, Wealdstone, Harrow, HA3 7ST.