Iain Sinclair: Latest Developments

Reader Glyn, commenting here, drew my attention to an article I'm too petulant to link to suggesting that the Council has shifted its position on Sinclair promoting his next book in their premises. The story spoke of "dramatic U-turn" in the Town Hall and quoted a spokeswoman saying that the Council was thinking of asking Sinclair to speak at an event early next year.

I can put some flesh on those bones. The Council denies U-turning let alone doing so dramatically, but acknowledges (ahem) adjusting its position in light of the hostile response in the media and locally. A letter from Kim Wright (Corporate Director, Community Services) to one unhappy resident denied that the original decision was "motivated by the desire to ban or censor Mr Sinclair's opinions"  and gave an assurance that Hackney's libraries will stock Hackney, That Rose Red Empire when it becomes available. It also acknowledged that "this is obviously an issue that we need to revisit in considerably more depth."

One outcome of that revisiting does indeed seem likely to be a Council-organised event early next year. I'm told that plans are afoot for a debate centring on regeneration policy, that Sinclair has been sounded out about taking part and that he's indicated that he might accept. Meanwhile, I can confirm that the launch of his book will now take place at the more-than-deserving Pages Of Hackney. By the way, if you're a) hungry and b) free this evening, you might like to drop in there from 7.00. it's hosting the launch of the Clapton Cookbook. Yum.

Update: Thanks to Bridget  Fox, Lib Dem parliamentary candidate for Islington South, for commenting below, mentioning this mischievous offer to host Sinclair's launch in her borough. Bridget blogs here and for the Guardian.          

   

Comments

[Bridget Fox]

Perhaps Hackney were shamed into backing down by the invitation given to Iain Sinclair by neighbouring Islington (http://islington-libdems.org.uk/news/001359/no_censorship_in_islington_liberal_democrats_open_arms_to_writers_banned_by_hackney_labour.html).

[Dave Hill]

Thank you, Bridget. I will ask the Council if this is true!