HACKNEY EMPIRE THEATRE

Early day motion 2121, tabled 21 October 2009 by Diane Abbott (Labour). Signed by 21 members.

That this House is deeply saddened by the news that the legendary Hackney Empire is due to close in January for an uncertain temporary period; is concerned that the theatre will lose valuable supporters during the temporary period and may not be able to reopen; notes the famous faces that have graced the theatre's stage, including Charlie Chaplin, Stan Laurel, Marie Lloyd, Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders, Ben Elton and Ralph Fiennes; recognises the value of the theatre's 108 years of history; further recognises the value of the variety of shows the theatre delivers, helping to engage hard-to-reach audiences; believes that the loss of the theatre would be damaging to Hackney and the surrounding areas; and calls on the Government to step in to save the treasured Hackney Empire.

Signatures by party: Labour 15, Conservative 2, Liberal Democrat 2, Independent 1, Respect 1.