Al Carns
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alcarns.bsky.social
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.
🏟️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.
November 20, 2025 at 4:10 PM
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
November 4, 2025 at 5:47 PM
💪 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.
September 25, 2025 at 5:03 PM
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.
August 11, 2025 at 3:45 PM
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.
August 8, 2025 at 11:31 AM
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.
August 6, 2025 at 1:53 PM
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.
August 1, 2025 at 9:42 AM
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.
July 25, 2025 at 3:48 PM
On Friday, I made my first ever plasma donation at the Birmingham Donor Centre. As MP for Selly Oak, I’m proud to stand up for a stronger, more self-sufficient NHS. Plasma donations are vital– they help treat over 50 life-threatening conditions.
#giveplasma @givebloodnhs.bsky.social
July 21, 2025 at 2:27 PM
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.
July 14, 2025 at 1:06 PM
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.
July 12, 2025 at 3:07 PM
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.
July 11, 2025 at 10:11 AM
I had a fantastic time attending this year's CoCoMAD festival at Cotteridge Park on Saturday. It was great to see so many people there enjoying themselves. CoCoMAD is run by Friends of Cotteridge Park, a group of dedicated volunteers who are always looking for more people to join their team.
July 9, 2025 at 10:45 AM
Today marks a fantastic milestone for rail travel in our region as the Midlands Rail Hub progresses, bringing with it new connections, additional platforms and up to 300 extra trains daily. At a visit to Kings Norton Station I witnessed how this investment will bridge communities and enhance travel.
July 8, 2025 at 1:31 PM
Curry, beer and wine in Stirchley on Friday.
A great end to a Friday night, and a great end to a first year with a legendary team.
For all the leaders out there- "you are only ever as good as your team".
Thanks guys for a fantastic year!
July 6, 2025 at 9:46 AM
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the venue for my next advice surgery this Saturday has changed. The new details are below. I apologise for any inconvenience caused.
July 3, 2025 at 3:12 PM
I'm really looking forward to attending this year's CoCoMAD festival at Cotteridge Park on Sat 5 July. I hope to see some of you there- you don’t need a ticket, and can bring the whole family.
Thanks to the community of Cotteridge. Without your support, this wonderful festival wouldn’t be possible.
June 24, 2025 at 9:25 AM
It was an honour to meet the Royal Air Force Air Cadets from Kings Heath & Moseley and Rubery Squadrons today. I joined them at their hub in Rubery, and for some fieldcraft training in the Waseley Hills. Young people from across Selly Oak attend both squadrons to gain further skills and experiences.
June 7, 2025 at 4:59 PM
May 7, 2025 at 4:01 PM
I recently met with a group of residents in Bournville, who are tackling road danger and making it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to get around. The discussion was very constructive and I look forward to working with them to make Selly Oak a safer and easier place to get around on two wheels.
May 7, 2025 at 10:45 AM
The lives we live today are made possible by the sacrifices of the past.

As we mark #VEDay80 this year, we show our thanks for the strength and dedication of our Armed Forces, both past and present.
April 25, 2025 at 10:23 AM
Calling all budding artists🧑‍🎨 – here is your opportunity to decorate 10 Downing Street! To mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, we’re inviting children to take part in a competition to design bunting for the celebrations. For more information and how to enter, visit: ve-vjday80.gov.uk/10-downing-s...
April 10, 2025 at 4:18 PM
The support Manchester gives to our Armed Forces Community starts with its leaders. So it’s been great to meet with Mayor @andyburnham.bsky.social to recognise everyone involved in helping to deliver the Greater Manchester Armed Forces Covenant Roadmap.
@greatermcr.bsky.social deserve great credit.
April 3, 2025 at 9:34 AM
Cllr Mary Locke is hosting a jobs fair to connect jobseekers with employers offering full-time, part-time and flexible vacancies. If you're looking for work or looking to fill a vacancy, please join Mary at Stirchley Baths, Bournville Lane, B30 2JT on Wed 9 April from 10am to 1.30pm.
April 2, 2025 at 9:07 AM
April 2, 2025 at 8:51 AM