17th March – Jack Abbott Calls on SCC to postpone decision to bring county’s library service back in-house

Jack Abbott, MP for Ipswich, has joined a cross-party group of Suffolk MPs in calling on Suffolk County Council to postpone its decision to bring the county’s library service back in-house.

In a joint letter to council leader Matthew Hicks, Jack and fellow MPs expressed serious concerns over the lack of public consultation and the impact the move could have on communities across Suffolk.

“Many constituents have written to us in shock and opposition to this move,” the MPs wrote. “Suffolk Libraries is more than just about books – it’s a vital community hub, supported by dedicated volunteers who help promote wellbeing and social connection.”

The letter, also signed by Labour MPs Jess Asato, Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, Peter Prinsley and Green MP Adrian Ramsay, urged the council to delay the decision and allow for public scrutiny.

With a petition surpassing 25,000 signatures and protests planned ahead of the council’s final vote, Jack reaffirmed his commitment to protecting local library services and ensuring residents’ voices are heard.

Read more in the East Anglian Daily Times here.