Al Carns

@alcarns.bsky.social

Labour Member of Parliament for Birmingham Selly Oak and Minister for the Armed Forces in the Ministry of Defence. Served 24 years in the Royal Marines, now a Reservist and politician.

McDonald’s has recently announced new plans for a development on the Hazelwell Lane site. Plans were previously introduced back in 2024 and following a public consultation McDonald’s returned to the drawing board. To let me know what you think, fill out this form: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1F...

I'm Listening: Stirchley McDonald's

You may have seen that McDonald’s have recently announced new plans for a development on the Hazelwell Lane site, besides Aldi. Plans were previously introduced back in 2024, and following a public co...

docs.google.com

The residents, members & local businesses behind the Stirchley Co-op Development have invested years of time, energy & resources into making the project a success. They deserve certainty about their future. I'll keep fighting for local people & community ownership www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026...

‘The soul’s been ripped out of it’: Birmingham community housing scheme on brink over costs dispute

Row over ‘landmark’ development in Stirchley has left people homeless and put businesses at risk, say locals

theguardian.com

I am seriously concerned by reports of intimidation and violence in Stirchley on Thursday, and have written to WMP. The Union Jack is a symbol of unity, not division; of patriotism, not polarisation. I condemn all attempts to hijack our flag and sow violence in our communities for political gain.

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It was great having Armed Forces Minister, @alcarns.bsky.social, back in Ipswich. Labour's Defence team have delivered: - the largest sustained increase in core defence funding since the Cold War - the biggest armed forces pay rise in 20+ years - £9bn to upgrade Armed Forces' family housing

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@teamlabouruk.bsky.social is investing £1.5 BILLION into our arts, museums, libraries, and heritage sites over the next 5 years. £760m – museums £425m – arts venues £230m – heritage buildings £27.5m – libraries ✅Protect 1,000+ local cultural venues ✅Secure thousands of jobs

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Lovely to visit @yardleywoodsch.bsky.social today and present a prize to Aaryan, this year’s brilliant runner-up in my Christmas card competition. A huge well done to Aaryan, and thank you to everyone at the school for the warm welcome and for all you do for our young people.

Yardley Wood Community Primary School@yardleywoodsch.bsky.social · 9mo ago

We loved having MP @alcarns.bsky.social visit our school today! He presented a prize to our amazing runner-up in this year’s Christmas card competition. We are all proud of you Aaryan!

🏟️The designs for the new @birminghamcity.bsky.social stadium look fantastic 🌍With such a clear nod to the city’s rich history, the stadium will become a national landmark attracting visitors worldwide 💼This major infrastructure project will have a transformational impact on the region and the city.

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It was a privilege to join fellow Defence Ministers yesterday to pay our respects at the Constituency Garden of Remembrance at the Palace of Westminster. The Garden brings together tributes from every constituency in the UK, as well as from the Commonwealth and the Overseas Territories. #Remembrance

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💪 Since being elected, I’ve worked hard in Parliament to stand up for Selly Oak – and now that work is delivering real results. 🙌 We’ve secured £20 million of long-term funding for Druids Heath through Labour’s Pride in Place programme: £2 million every year for the next decade.

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I recently had the pleasure of spending an evening in conversation with the brilliant Jacqui Smith. It was a privilege to share stories from my time in the Royal Marines, Everest, my year as MP for Selly Oak & my time in Government as Minister for Veterans & People. Here’s to the journey ahead.

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I visited Acorns Children's Hospice and admired the new mural created in honour of the remarkable Benjamin Zephaniah- renowned poet, musician, actor, proud Brummie, and advocate for causes close to his heart. Benjamin was a devoted long-standing supporter of Acorns, generously giving his time.

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Great to visit Birmingham Hippodrome- the UK’s busiest theatre and a real cultural gem for our city. The Hipp is more than a stage- it’s a driver of opportunity, creativity & over £73m in economic value for our region. I’m looking forward to working together to champion the role of the arts in Bham.

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During a recent visit to Birmingham Children's Hospital, I witnessed remarkable work from an exceptional team dedicated to supporting all our children and women in society. I learned about the Trust's innovative approach, including 3D-printing heart models to enhance cardiology treatment.

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As veteran, I recognise the challenges that many of our Service personnel can face when transitioning back to civilian life. This week's visit to Combat Stress in Birmingham was deeply moving. I saw the care being provided and met veterans who are on their journey to recovery.

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A reminder that I will be at Cotteridge Church on Mon 21 July, to discuss and address the issue of poverty with our constituents. I am eager to hear the concerns and issues of local residents, take questions, and discuss the efforts being made to combat poverty at both local and national levels.

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I'd be delighted if you could join me on Thur 24 July for a relaxed evening filled with stories, laughter, perhaps a drink or two, and an exclusive look into my life as an MP. Most importantly, your presence will support Labour's 2026 campaign fund. 🎟️Book your tickets here: labevents.org/wm25alcarns

Last week, I visited the Outpost Arts Centre in Druids Heath and meeting with Jayne. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about this remarkable community facility. We discussed the Cultural Placemaking Plan for Druids Heath and the ongoing efforts to establish a Cultural Action Area.

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Last week, I had the opportunity to visit Christchurch C of E Secondary Academy. Since the tragic loss of their student Leo Ross, the school community has faced significant challenges. It was heartening to return to the school and reconnect with the remarkable staff and students.

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