In the words of David Rocastle: “Remember who you are, what you are, and who you represent”

• I AM writing to you as Chair of the Highbury West Labour Party branch to express our concern at the announcement on August 5 by Arsenal Football Club that a consultation period would take place with a view to making 55 people redundant.

It is of serious concern – both the nature and timing of this announcement – given it has been widely reported that playing staff had agreed a pay cut to protect jobs within the club, and coming so soon after an inspirational FA Cup win, which brought joy to the community here in Highbury West.

Arsenal Football Club provides a valuable service to this community, bringing us together to support the team’s endeavours, providing a boost to the local businesses that service fans, and providing jobs for local people.

We also note the efforts made by Arsenal in providing emergency food aid throughout the Covid-19 coronavirus crisis.

We believe the club is more than a business. It is a community not just in the Highbury and Islington areas but around the world.

And, as such, it has a responsibility to set a positive example to other football clubs and businesses that hold the club in high regard.

The Highbury West Labour Party urge Arsenal Football Club in the strongest possible terms to reconsider this course of action and give a commitment to the hard-working staff of the club, who make success possible, that their jobs are safe and secure.

In the words of David Rocastle: “Remember who you are, what you are, and who you represent.”

EOGHAN BEECHER
Highbury West Labour Party