Commonwealth Day 2026

Opened the debate

Adam Jogee, co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group for the Commonwealth and a member of the executive of the UK branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, acknowledged and marked Commonwealth Day 2026. He highlighted the formation of the Commonwealth in 1949, its current standing with 56 independent countries and 2.7 billion people, and its shared goals on development, democracy, and peace. Jogee emphasised the importance of the Commonwealth for the United Kingdom, particularly in light of the country's departure from the European Union, and called for nurturing and furthering connections with the Commonwealth. He also paid tribute to the flag-raising ceremony and the service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, where he and many others gathered to reflect on the Commonwealth's legacy and future.

Government Response

Hamish Falconer, Minister, acknowledged Adam Jogee's tireless work in support of the Commonwealth. He emphasised the importance of the Commonwealth in fostering global cooperation and friendship, especially during challenging times. The Minister highlighted the Commonwealth's relevance in today's world, its commitment to development, peace, and democracy, and the UK's role as the largest financial contributor to its institutions. He discussed the upcoming Commonwealth games in Glasgow, the Commonwealth foreign affairs meeting, and the Heads of Government meeting in Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. The Minister also outlined the UK's support for economic growth, climate challenges, and democratic resilience within the Commonwealth, including initiatives like the Commonwealth investment network and financial measures for climate resilience. He concluded by expressing the government's commitment to enhancing cooperation to ensure the Commonwealth continues to deliver for all its citizens.