A biography for John McDonnellhasn’t been written yet.
“I would like Leveson Part Two. I think Leveson was a good exercise. That is why the Tories blocked it, because it was beginning to develop more accountability within the media itself.”
“When I left school I went onto the shop floor, working 12-hour shifts in a TV factory. My workmates were sharp, skilled and all capable of enjoying higher education - but they didn't have that opportunity.”
“I'm a Marxist.”
“Very clearly, government investment can and should be used to support economic growth.”
“As the world changes, the way we work changes with it.”
“Democratic government requires the consent of the governed.”
“If corporations and rich people who made fortunes out of us during the boom are not paying their fair share then reform the tax system and close down the tax havens.”
“Labour will only survive in government if we can restore the sense of mission upon which it was founded.”
“Leaders play an important role, but it is the Labour party's supporters and potential supporters who should take the lead in discussing and determining the sense of purpose and direction of the party if we are to return to being a social movement aiming to transform our society.”
“When I was a GLC councillor, we won and held London as Labour was imploding nationally - running popular campaigns against the Thatcher Government and fighting on our own agenda.”
“To me, education is not a commodity. It is a public good, essential to any society with a claim to being civilised.”
“In 1985, as a community activist and GLC councillor, I organised the first ever public meeting to explain the threat of a third runway at Heathrow airport for my local community.”
“Our supporters just want a Labour government. They want a Labour government that does what Labour governments are expected to do. They expect a Labour government to provide them, their families and their communities with the support and security they need, especially in difficult times.”
“Only the political process offers the real prospect of a united Ireland at peace with itself.”
“The Tories have made a complete mess of Brexit negotiations.”
“When you talk to people about their practical life, for example when they're at work, like the rail industry, the RMT members know better than anyone else how to run their industry.”
“I've always honestly and openly said I believe in a united Ireland, but the point was to try and get to a united Ireland without the violence.”
“The arrogant view that young people don't count because they don't vote has thankfully been smashed for ever.”
“How many times have we seen politicians in office become cut off from the outside world and become unaware that the world has moved on?”