'Let's pledge solidarity to Bedford Windrush generation' - Liberal Democrats call on fellow councillors

Lib Dem Cllr Patrick Solomon will propose a motion at the full council meeting to recognise the ‘enormous contribution of members of the Windrush Generation to British society following the Second World War.’

The motion includes pledges for the council to mark Windrush Day on June 22, to offer support and signposting to Bedford Windrush residents including promotion of the Windrush compensation scheme, and to work with Bedford support group, Legacy Of Windrush Descendants.

Cllr Solomon said: “People of the Windrush generation were invited here by this country and after working hard and making their homes here, they were sorely let down. There are many members of the Windrush generation here in Bedford borough, and they and their families were caused unnecessary anxiety and distress by their appalling treatment.

“We believe that the very least we can do for them is to send a united message of solidarity and to help them access the support available.”

The Government apologised in 2018 for the Windrush Scandal, when Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK before 1973 were threatened with deportation, despite their legal right to remain in the country permanently.