8:42PM
Corbyn: I have sent a message of support to Diane
Jeremy Corbyn received a standing ovation as he took to his feet and made his way to the podium to begin his speech, Connor Stringer writes.
Holding a small microphone, his opening remarks were to thank those in attendance and to wish two of his staffers happy birthday.
But soon after, the hall erupted into applause as Mr Corbyn expressed his support for Diane Abbott
He said: “Even as I am speaking, there are thousands of people outside Hackney Town Hall in support of Diane Abbott.
“Obviously I am not there with her but I have sent a message of support”.
