The New Statesman New Media Awards took place last night at London’s Serpentine Gallery, with the worlds of politics and technology for once seamlessly coming together. The event, now in its fifth year, champions websites that contribute to public life.

David Miliband, MP and Cabinet Minister, opened the event with a speech hailing the meritocracy and democracy at the heart of new media. David also referred to the case of the blogger Petite Anglaise, who lost her job for her online activities. As the first blogging secretary of state he may have something of an interest to declare in this area. Mind you it was his Labour colleague Derek Wyatt, who won the elected representative category.

When Peter Tatchell took to the stage, some may have expected he would do a little more than simply present an award. Instead he chose to raise the case of an Iraqi who formerly worked for the British Embassy in Baghdad. He said the man is now facing extradition to Iraq and is in fear of his life. The audience was left in little doubt that the Outrage founder was using the platform to lobby David Miliband.

New Statesman editor John Kampfner also spoke, paying tribute to Kathryn Corrick, Online Manager, for organising the awards evening. The event also marked Kathryn’s last day at work.

Accessibility Award Winner. Commission for Social Care Inspection
Advocacy Award. Pledgebank
Contribution to Civic Sociey Award. mySociety: Write to Them
Education Award. Sonic Postcards
Elective Representative Award. Derek Wyatt
Independent Information Award. Open Democracy
Innovation Award. BBC Back stage
Modernising Government Award. Love Lewisham