The MP for Brent Central has won an MP of the Year award which she has accepted on behalf of her constituents.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Dawn Butler with her new award (Pic: Susan Grace)Dawn Butler with her new award (Pic: Susan Grace) (Image: Archant)

Dawn Butler MP, has received the Labour Party’s People’s Choice MP of the Year Award from the Patchwork Foundation, a not for profit organisation that helps to engage under-represented, deprived and minority communities into the political environment.

More than 60 MPs were nominated for the award which was announced by John Bercow MP, Speaker of the Commons and patron the Patchwork Foundation at an event at Speakers House on Wednesday.

The win comes a month after Ms Butler joined the shadow cabinet as shadow minister for diverse communities.

She praised Mr Berkow for being “unyielding in his quest to change how parliament looks and feels” adding: “Public service is not something one embarks upon for acclaim or awards but it feels really good when you get one. This is such an honour, I would like to congratulate all the MPs for their hard work and campaigns.

“The enthusiasm of Patchwork foundation to support a more engaged and inclusive society through promoting and encouraging the participation of under-represented groups in the political sphere makes this award even more special. I am humbled to accept this award on behalf of my constituents in Brent Central and I will continue my fight for equality and justice for all.”

Jeremy Corbyn MP, Labour Party leader, said: “I’m delighted that Dawn Butler has received the Labour Party People’s Choice MP of the Year award that recognises both her brilliant work in representing ethnic minority communities and the unique character and energy she brings to it. It is exactly why I was so pleased she joined the shadow cabinet as shadow minister for diverse communities, which is such a crucial portfolio at this moment in time for our country.”

“Siddiq Musa, a partner at KPMG, which sponsored the event, said: “We are delighted to sponsor these Patchwork Awards for the third year encouraging under represented communities to connect with the political process and celebrating those MPs from across the political divide who have really made a difference to inclusion. The work done by their volunteers and the time they commit will hopefully inspire young people in all communities to fulfil their true potential. How organisations work with, and within, their local communities is a critical part of inspiring young people.”