Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn scorned Islington’s “elitist” stereotype while launching his general election campaign today.
Responding to a question that asked whether he was part of the “Islington elite”, Mr Corbyn said: “I am very proud to represent Islington North in Parliament. And it’s absolutely true: there are people in Islington who buy and drink cappuccino every day – I know many of them.
“But it’s also true that 40 per cent of children are in poverty. It’s also true there are people sleeping on the streets of our borough. So don’t run away with this idea that everyone in London is living the life of Riley and is very wealthy.”
The 2015 Index of Multiple Deprivation showed that Islington is the 26th most deprived borough in the country – in contrast to its wealthy image.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here