Vassall Councillor - Kingsley Abrams

Kingsley Abrams

Kingsley Abrams is Deputy Cabinet Member for Enterprise and had been a Labour Councillor for Vassall Ward since May 2006.

When and why did you first become interested in politics?
The thing that first got me involved was the strong anti-apartheid stance taken by the Guyanese government. I am from Guyana originally and the Government had, for example, decided not to allow Cricketers from south Africa to travel to Guyana and play. I thought it was extremely important that they took this stand.

What inspired you to become a councillor?
I live in Vassall ward which I represent. Vassall is a very diverse ward and I enjoy working with people from lots of different backgrounds. I suppose I was just in the right place at the right time to stand for a position where I could help local people.

Has it been worth it?
Yes it has. We’ve now got a Labour council with a Labour Mayor and being offered the enterprise portfolio, best job in the council listen to local people and deliver.

Kingsley with MP for Vauxhall Kate Hoey

What’s your greatest fear and your greatest hope?
My greatest fear is seeing the effects of poverty on our society continue. My greatest hope is that Labour will be in power in Lambeth for a very long time indeed, so that we can deliver for the people of Lambeth

What’s the first thing you would do if you ruled the world for a day?
Try and sort out the situation in the middle east. We urgently need a two state solution.

What single thing would most improve your area?
Allowing council's to build social housing .

What’s your favourite film?
The Godfather

What does your council do particularly well?
Lambeth Council understands diversity and supporting people from different backgrounds. The council is good at using diversity as a strength.

What do you consider your greatest political triumph?
Winning Vassall and coming top of the poll.

What was your most embarrassing moment?
When I first came to UK, I'd never seen an escalator before! I had a lot of trouble stepping on and off them. That was pretty embarrassing.

What is the biggest problem with local government today?
The lack of ability to build new homes.

How would you solve it?
Change legislation to allow council's to borrow and build new homes.

Who is your political hero, and why?
Dr Martin Luther King. Inspiration for black people everywhere. He really believed and campaigned for the idea that "All men are treated equal".

When and where are you most happy?
When I’m with my family in Guyana sitting on the sea wall, early in the morning or late in the evening.

What’s your theme song, and why?
A reggae version of How Great Thou Art by George Nooks. It which was originally a gospel song. I heard it playing when I was in Brixton Market and bought it straight away. I play that song every morning to inspire me!

What one book would you take with you to a desert island?
The Arrogance of Power by Anthony Summers – it’s about the secret world of Richard Nixon.

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