The UK has been a multi-faith, multi-ethnic success story, and I firmly believe the cultural diversity of our population is something we can take great pride in. Millions of people from around the world have come and settled in the UK over the last 3 decades, drawn to our diverse, open and tolerant society.
Diversity can be a strength, but only so long as people feel they are all part of one and the same society, rather than many different societies in one country.
Like everyone, up and down the country, I was deeply shocked and saddened by the events of the summer of 2024 and my thoughts and prayers remain with the victims of the Southport attack, their family and friends, and the people of Southport. That three little girls were so cruelly taken by a barbaric attack at their summer dance school can still be scarcely believed. Those families involved in that day will never forget the terror their youngsters encountered and we all salute the bravery of those who ran into harm to save and protect lives.
It is vital that the right steps are taken to ensure that no child, no family, and no community has to face the distress that the people of Southport felt. In terms of those events – both the heinous attack on innocent children and the subsequent disorder and terrible riots that broke out following this attack, in the town and further afield - it was essential that the Government enforced the law. I strongly condemn the acts of violence, the unacceptable attacks on police officers and the criminal damage caused during these and, indeed, in all outbreaks of civil or community disorder.
I am, like many, also incredibly concerned about the growing impact of misinformation and disinformation online on our society making daily lives a misery for many. Too many rush to comment and pass judgement online; the spreading of dangerous gossip and speculation on the internet clearly amplifies division, distress, grief and anger. We have seen this from all sides of the political spectrum and, sadly, we continue to see it.
We all have a personal responsibility to check before we share information.
It is becoming increasingly clear community cohesion needs to be worked at, not simply taken for granted so my colleagues and I are committed to fostering stronger, more integrated communities where people—regardless of their background—live, learn, work, and socialise together, united by shared rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.
As part of this, it is essential that our immigration policies support effective integration for those who come to our country, emphasising the importance of a common vision and shared values based on our democratic practices, equality, freedom, women’s rights, diversity, fairness and the rule of law. We need to actively help create a real sense of belonging for those joining our national community.
Like you, I firmly believe in the importance of building stronger, more integrated communities. As a country, we must continue to recognise and value the common themes which bind us all together and I want to see Ministers working to build people's sense of community and belonging.
We must strive to bring people together, to share and strengthen the liberal values that have made our country successful and peaceful for so long – a country that so many have chosen to make their home.
You can be certain I will be closely monitoring this new Labour Government’s work in this area.
