Backbench Business

The Windrush generation played a crucial role in rebuilding post-war Britain, contributing to its NHS and transport systems. However, they faced racism and hardship, including the recent scandal which led to loss of citizenship for many. There is still work needed on compensation schemes and justice for victims.

Acknowledges Joy Morrissey's intervention.

Expresses gratitude to the Windrush generation and their contribution in making her feel British. Emphasises the positive impact of the Windrush generation on British society, highlighting their role in teaching new immigrants about being proud of Britain and contributing positively.

Celebrates the Windrush generation's contributions to UK society, acknowledges past failures by the state in treating them, and highlights the importance of addressing compensation scheme inefficiencies. Mentions local examples such as four known passengers from Chichester on the Empire Windrush and Chichester Festival Theatre's efforts towards inclusivity. Calls for urgent implementation of recommendations from the Windrush lessons learned review to ensure justice for victims.

I thank all hon. Members who have contributed to the debate on celebrating the Windrush generation, and I agree with the comments made by the hon. Member for Dulwich and West Norwood about commemorating at Windrush Square. The Windrush generation answered Britain's call after World War II and helped rebuild the nation through their labour in public services like the NHS and industry. They enriched democracy with new voices, excelled in sports, and transformed British culture, yet also faced severe racism that we must acknowledge and address. I agree with the hon. Member for Brent East about Britain not being a racist country now but need to tackle lingering inequalities. We should recognise how far Britain has come while acknowledging past injustices to ensure they do not repeat.

Intervened that the racism faced by the Windrush generation was real and it is disappointing that similar abuse is happening today. Emphasised the need for parliamentarians to stop stoking division and hate in the country.

Acknowledged Dawn Butler's intervention, noting she and Dawn Butler co-chair the all-party parliamentary group on women in Parliament and that there are many times they agree on things. Referred to Dawn Butler as 'evergreen', which is a humorous way of saying very young.

I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Dulwich and West Norwood on securing this important debate and on her poignant speech, and I thank other Members for their brilliant speeches on this important topic. It is an issue that Members across the House have deep and personal feelings about... Despite adversity, the Windrush generation continue to build, create and contribute so much to British society. The Government are proud to support Windrush Day through the grant scheme and wider engagement across the country.

Britain is a great country, and Bournemouth is a great town; everywhere I go I see the values of unity and decency. I saw this recently at St Walburga’s primary school in Bournemouth, where I was invited by one of the teachers, Kern Browne, to hear from year 6 students who were remembering the Windrush generation... At the same time as she thanks the Windrush generation, will the Minister thank these young people for trying to spread diversity in our communities?

Thanked Members who contributed to the debate, acknowledged family stories and experiences shared by other MPs, expressed urgency for reform in the compensation scheme due to ageing Windrush generation, called on the Government to consider independent legal representation and more experienced caseworkers, highlighted the need for a national monument and recognition of Andrea Levy's work, thanked the Minister for her response and urged further action.