'We know the debt we owe to the Tamil community' - British Tamil Conservatives host senior leaders at party conference

by admin
Oct 1, 2024

The British Tamil Conservatives (BTC) hosted their annual reception at the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham on Sunday, with number of current and former parliamentarians present. Speakers at the event highlighted the contributions of the British Tamil community and reiterated their commitment to advocating for justice for Tamils in Sri Lanka.

Former All Party Parliamentary Group for Tamils' Chair Elliot Colburn hosted the event and introduced the long array of speakers. 

Andrew Mitchell, the current Shadow Foreign Secretary, acknowledged, "we know that the Tamil community contributed an enormous amount to life across our country" and, "we know the debt we owe to the Tamil community." He concluded with, "I salute the work the Tamil community does throughout our country."

Chris Philp, Shadow Leader of the House of Commons, highlighted shared values between the British Tamil community and the Conservative Party, citing "entrepreneurship, hard work, education, and family values." He also affirmed, "we as a party are committed to making sure those injustices get investigated and those wrongs get righted.”

Shivani Raja the new member of parliament for Leicester East acknowledged the community's significant contributions to trade and culture, stating, "The British Tamil community has contributed heavily to trade and culture," and highlighted their dedication to preserving their heritage and traditions.

Jason Perry, the Mayor of Croydon, also spoke, stating, "We have a fantastic Tamil community in Croydon" and emphasised the importance of delivering on promises related to sanctions and justice for Tamils. Number former parliamentarians who are long term supporters of Tamils also attended the event and reiterated their support for the community. 

Steve Tuckwell, the former MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip, expressed his solidarity, stating, "My heart goes out to the Tamil community" and added that he wanted "to work with […] and support the wonderful Tamil community."

Paul Scully, former Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy, pledged his commitment to the Tamil community, stating, "I am going to be with you every step of the way to get justice, reconciliation, and truth in Sri Lanka." He also mentioned efforts to "help you to get our first Tamil MP on Conservative benches."

Theresa Villiers, former MP for Chipping Barnet, reassured the audience of her continued support, saying, "Rest assured that I remain committed to the Tamil community." She added that, "if the Sri Lankan state is unable to implement justice and accountability, then the International Criminal Court needs to get involved to provide it.”

In addition leadership candidates and representatives of leadership candidates also attended the event.

Lord Bailey, a Conservative member of the House of Lords and a supporter of Kemi Badenoch, praised the Tamil community as "one of the brightest stars in London’s community landscape."

Tom Tugendhat, former Security Minister and leadership candidate, commended the contributions of the British Tamil community, stating, "The British Tamils have done so much for the British community."

Susannah Cleverly, wife of former Home Secretary and leadership candidate James Cleverly, praised the Tamil community for their societal contributions.

The Chairman of the Conservative Party, Richard Fuller, also paid a visit and engaged in a discussion with BTC members.

The party conference takes place after the Conservatives fell out of power, following 14 years in government.

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