London Socialist Historians Group
24th May
Contact Dr Keith Flett 07803 167266
Starmer’s Primrose Hill restrictions disrespect famous former resident Friedrich Engels
The London Socialist Historians Group, which organises the socialist history seminar at the Institute of Historical Research, has said that Keir Starmer’s reported involvement in efforts to restrict evening access to Primrose Hill park in North London disrespect one of the area’s most famous former residents, Friedrich Engels.
According to reports in the Camden New Journal and the Observer, Starmer, who is the MP for the area, has played a central role in getting the Royal Parks, who are responsible for Primrose Hill, to erect 9 foot high gates to stop evening access.
The move comes after complaints from some local residents and Tory Councillors that young people were causing night-time disturbances. Other local residents have launched a petition demanding that access to the park is maintained for all.
Engels lived opposite the park for many years until his death in August 1895. There is a plaque at 122 Regents Park Rd where he lived. In 1894 he moved to 41 Regent’s Park Rd as he noted ‘closer to the entrance to the Park’.
London Socialist Historians Convenor Dr Keith Flett said, Keir Starmer is not thought to be too well up on labour history but free access to Primrose Hill has a long history, which was enjoyed for many years by Engels who walked across the park to visit Marx in Kentish Town.
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