In a profoundly moving and courageous address to the House of Commons, Poplar and Limehouse MP Apsana Begum has spoken publicly for the first time about surviving a harrowing experience of domestic abuse.
The Labour MP delivered her powerful personal testimony during a debate on the Domestic Abuse Bill, revealing she had been a victim of coercive control, economic abuse, and psychological manipulation.
"I am a survivor of domestic abuse," Begum told a hushed chamber, detailing how the abuse included financial control, isolation from family and friends, and constant monitoring of her movements and communications.
She described the profound impact the abuse had on her mental and physical health, stating she felt "trapped and alone" during the ordeal. The MP emphasised how difficult it can be for victims to recognise they are in an abusive relationship, particularly when it involves non-physical forms of control.
Begum's decision to speak out comes after she was recently acquitted of housing fraud charges, which she described as being "brought on the basis of malicious and false allegations" by her former husband.
She called for greater understanding of how domestic abuse manifests and urged the government to ensure proper funding for support services, particularly for black and minority ethnic women who often face additional barriers to seeking help.
The MP received cross-party support following her speech, with colleagues praising her bravery in speaking out about her experiences to help others in similar situations.
