Facebook Twitter 新浪微博 Instagram YouTube Friday, Jan. 29, 2016
Search
Archive
English
English>>People's Daily Online Exclusives

First and only MP of Chinese descent Alan Mak joins reception to celebrate record number of BME MPs

By Bai Tianxing (People's Daily Online)    13:31, January 29, 2016
Email|Print
First and only MP of Chinese descent Alan Mak joins reception to celebrate record number of BME MPs
First and only MP of Chinese descent Alan Mak joins reception to celebrate record number of BME MPs. (Photo/people.cn)

LONDON Jan.28 —— Black and Minority (BME) MPs in UK parliment increased to a historic number of 41, which is 6.3% of all MP's. Parliamentarians and campaigners attended a reception at the Houses of Parliament to celebrate last night, guests including Home Secretary Theresa May, Alan Mak MP, Keith Vaz. The event recognised the increase of BME MPs from just five in 1996.

Speaking at the event, Home Secretary Rt Hon Theresa May said:"Eighteen years ago, when I first entered Parliament, I looked across the green benches around me and saw a chamber that was too white, too male, and with too many people from the same walk of life. Thanks to the fantastic work of organisations like Operation Black Vote, we've come a long way and Parliament is better for it. There is a record number of black and ethnic minority MPs, more women than ever before, and an increasing number of openly gay MPs."

"Tonight is a celebration of what has been achieved, but it must also be the impetus for further change. To ensure that Britain is a place where all people – no matter who they are or where they come from – have the opportunity to succeed."

Alan Mak MP said:"I have been a trailblazer in the House of Commons, being the first and only MP of Chinese descent in British history. However, I was inspired by Chinese members of the House of Lords to stand, and am in turn hoping to inspire another generation of Britons of Chinese heritage to follow me into these corridors of power, and to make a difference to their communities, and wider society."

Mitee CEO Baroness Ruby McGregor Smith:"Truth is whether it is politics or business, ensuring real opportunities at every level, for women and BME communities, will give them a greater sense of belonging and make our economy stronger. It is my hope that everyone in the UK has the opportunity to realise their own aspirations."

(For the latest China news, Please follow People's Daily on Twitter and Facebook)
(Editor:Kong Defang,Bianji)

Add your comment

Most Viewed

Day|Week

Hot News

We Recommend

Photos

prev next

Related reading