Rotherham MPs to face Jesse Jackson

The pair are among more than 400 MPs expected to be confronted by campaigners including Christian Aid supporters and American civil rights activist the Rev Jesse Jackson on climate change and tax dodging.

More than 80 supporters from Yorkshire will meet at the Methodist Central Hall as part of a 2000-strong crowd to hear Mr Jackson and the Secretary of State for International Development, Andrew Mitchell, speak.

In the afternoon they will join other Christian Aid supporters, representing over 422 constituencies across the UK, at the Houses of Commons to lobby MPs and urge them to support stronger government action on climate change and international tax dodging by multi-national companies.  

Mr Jackson said: “We understand that times are hard, both in the US and the UK, but we are still better off than our neighbours in the developing world.  

“We are reminded that in the Bible's New Testament, Jesus teaches us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter the homeless.  

“So while we fight for jobs and peace and justice in the UK and the US, we must remember to keep hope alive for our brothers and sisters in Africa, in the Caribbean, in South Asia, and all those in need around the world.”

Lindsey Pearson, Regional Manager for Christian Aid in Yorkshire, said: “October 20 is a very important day in the political calendar, and for the country.  

“The Comprehensive Spending Review means the majority of MPs are at the House of Commons, giving our supporters an ideal opportunity to lobby their local representative.

“With spending cuts afoot, and more than 200 new MPs, it's vital we lobby them on the need for urgent action on climate change and tax dodging, both of which affect millions of people living in developing countries.

“We are delighted Jesse Jackson, an outspoken campaigner for social justice, is joining us to help get our messages across to the British Government.”

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