The British Prime Minister praised British Tamils for their invaluable contribution to the United Kingdom.
The British Prime Minister hosted a reception at his residence in Number 10 Downing Street on Monday evening, where he praised British Tamils for their invaluable contribution to the United Kingdom.
“There’s a huge contribution of the Tamil community to our nation,” said Starmer, as he addressed a crowd of British Tamils.“The richness and generosity of the Tamil community overflows, bringing light and hope to the entire country. Your history, your heritage, reminding us all of our need for community and solidarity.”
“It’s really fantastic just to look around this room and see you all here in Downing Street. Yes, it is my house. Yes, it is the centre of government. But it’s where you should be as well—not just as guests, but here to put your fingerprints on what we do as a government.”
“Treat this place like your house just as much as it is my house,” he added.
Speaking on how some Tamils in the audience can trace their heritage back to a history that “comes with suffering and pain,” Starmer added, “You are not just welcome – You are a vital part of our nation.”
The Prime Minister went on to talk about hopes for a “better future for our children, not just here at home but around the world, especially back in Sri Lanka”.
“This government is absolutely committed to supporting efforts towards equality, truth, and justice, so Tamils can look towards a better and more secure future in Sri Lanka and here in Britain,” he added.
“Thank you – for enriching our nation. Let us hope and work together for a new season of light and abundance this Thai Pongal.”
Speaking shortly before the prime minister was Uma Kumaran, the UK’s first ever MP of Eelam Tamil heritage, who paid tribute to the work of British Tamils which “spans healthcare, education, technology, business, arts, culture, and politics.”
“Together, our community has shown such resilience and determination – but I’m proud to say that we are thriving in the UK and globally,” said Kumaran to applause from the audience.
“Though I was born here, I understand the struggles that generations of Tamils have been through,” she continued. “I watched my own parents rebuild their lives in the UK.”
“I know – and I feel – the absence of justice for Tamils globally. And I feel the weight of duty to use my voice to shine a light on this injustice. I will do all that I can to secure accountability and justice, so that we can move forward as a community.”
“It was inspiring to bring together members of our community who are thriving across the UK – contributing to our NHS, excelling in education, driving innovation in business, science and tech, and enriching our culture through the arts and sports,” added Kumaran after the event.
“As the first British MP of Tamil heritage, I know how important it is for young people and the next generation of change makers to see themselves reflected in politics and public life. This event is not just a celebration of Tamil culture but also a recognition of the British values of hard work, gratitude, and community that Tamils embody and celebrate.”
The evening was filled with entertainment, including from Bharatanatyam dancer Tharenya Sriharan who was introduced by Starmer to the stage.
The celebration of Thai Pongal at the British Prime Minister’s residence has become an annual tradition in the British political calendar.