Obama's men targeted for Dagenham prison battle
John Phillips A US internet strategy firm Barack Obama used to reach voters before his historic victory could help Jon Cruddas consult residents on the Dagenham prison. The prominent Labour MP for Dagenham is hoping to work with Blue State Digital to sound public opini
John Phillips
A US internet strategy firm Barack Obama used to reach voters before his historic victory could help Jon Cruddas consult residents on the Dagenham prison.
The prominent Labour MP for Dagenham is hoping to work with Blue State Digital to sound public opinion on the proposed 1,500-inmate, category B prison to be built by 2013 off New Road which he claims is being "dropped on his constituents".
The Washington-based firm, which has an office in London, helped with Obama's online fundraising, voter outreach and social networking in the lead-up to his election victory in November.
Mr Cruddas, left "outraged" after being told of the prison plans just 20 minutes before they were unveiled, is also hoping to discuss the issue in a one-to-one meeting with Gordon Brown next week.
A Facebook online campaign against the Dagenham prison had already been signed by 2,000 people.
Most Read
- 1 NHS trust celebrates success in cutting long-term waiting list to almost zero following administrative error
- 2 Thousands set to descend on Dagenham for music fest as licence approved
- 3 Council clears illegal encampment under Ripple Road flyover
- 4 Wanted: Man sought after aggravated burglaries, failing to appear in court
- 5 Boris Johnson will resign as Tory leader today
- 6 Barking and Dagenham gets lowly ranking for 'healthy streets'
- 7 DVLA issues urgent warning to drivers in UK
- 8 Serving Met officer suspended from duty after stalking charge
- 9 Inquest told Zara Aleena died from head and neck injuries
- 10 Jailed: Burglar who stole equipment worth more than £3k from car repair centre
Mr Cruddas has distributed 4,000 questionnaires. The MP has acknowledged he may have to raise funds as part of a potential partnership with Blue State Digital.
He said: "I think I can raise some money. We're going to launch a massive campaign, also through the internet with people who are supposed to be the best in the world, so watch this space."
The Ministry of Justice is hoping to build the "safe and secure" jail, with modern healthcare and education facilities and training workshops, in a bid to tackle the growing prison population.
Mr Cruddas added: "I'm going to put a motion in parliament this week and ask detailed questions.
"Next week, I hope to see the Prime Minister in person and keep building up. It's not going to be resolved quickly.
"We're going to find out what people want. People are worried about this being dropped on them.