London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – David Lammy announces plans to appoint a special envoy to manage complex detention cases involving Britons abroad
MoreDavid Lammy, born on July 19, 1972, in London, is an English politician and lawyer. He is a member of the Labour Party and has been the Member of Parliament for Tottenham since the 2000 Tottenham by-election. Lammy studied law at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) and was admitted to the Bar of England and Wales in 1994.
Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in various political roles, serving as a Minister in the Labour government for 9 years from 2001 to 2010 and being appointed as a Privy Councillor in 2008. Lammy is known for his advocacy in social activism, diversity, and multiculturalism, addressing significant societal issues and providing solutions for effective change. He has authored books like ‘Out of the Ashes: Britain after the riots,’ focusing on the reasons behind the 2011 riots and strategies to prevent such events in the future.
Additionally, in September 2017, Lammy led a significant project known as the Lammy Review. This review focused on the treatment of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic individuals in the Criminal Justice System, providing 35 policy recommendations to address disparities and outcomes for individuals from minority backgrounds within the system.
In his role as the MP for Tottenham, Lammy has taken on the responsibility of representing his constituents and advocating for their needs. He has been a strong voice for marginalized communities, pushing for policy changes to address systemic inequalities. In the 2017 general election, David Lammy secured 82% of the vote in Tottenham, demonstrating strong support from his constituents. However, in 2022, he faced criticism for his stance on affirmative action, sparking debates on privilege and systemic biases in society.
David Lammy, Shadow Secretary for Foreign Affairs, called for a Gaza ceasefire on April 3, 2024, amid escalating conflict. Criticizing Trump’s NATO stance, Lammy faced Ofcom scrutiny on April 2, 2024, for an LBC radio show. Pro-Palestinian protesters disrupted his London speech on April 4, 2024. Labor, under Lammy’s lead, urged a lasting ceasefire in Rafah. Starmer addressed pro-Israel concerns on April 5, 2024. David Lammy has been a long-time campaigner for lifelong learning and adult education. He was instrumental in establishing Birkbeck’s outreach program in Haringey. Lammy believes in the power of local community, broad political involvement, and solidarity, while still maintaining that there also needs to be state investment in communities.
London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – David Lammy announces plans to appoint a special envoy to manage complex detention cases involving Britons abroad
MoreOn January 15, 2022, David Lammy visited Northern Ireland with Shadow Secretary Peter Kyle and Shadow Cabinet Office Minister Jenny Chapman. They made a statement on the Northern Ireland Protocol, emphasizing the need for solutions that uphold peace and stability. Lammy said, “We must ensure the Protocol works for the people of Northern Ireland, supporting the Good Friday Agreement and fostering economic growth.” The visit included discussions on the £400 million Belfast Region City Deal, a major investment project driving economic growth and job creation in the region. Lammy’s engagement highlights his commitment to addressing complex political issues and promoting economic development.
On February 5, 2022, at the University of Oxford, David Lammy criticized the institution for its low admission rates of black students and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, stating, “The University of Oxford is failing in its duty to ensure fair access to higher education for all students, particularly those from underrepresented communities.” Lammy called for a £10 million investment in the “Oxford Access Initiative,” a project aimed at increasing diversity and inclusion. This initiative includes outreach programs, scholarships, and mentorship initiatives to support students from marginalized backgrounds, emphasizing the need for systemic change to promote equality and diversity in higher education.
David Lammy, in a January 5, 2023 statement in London, stressed the economic opportunities of climate action, citing the Green Energy Revolution project. He highlighted the dual benefits of addressing climate change, stating, “Tackling climate change is not only a moral imperative but also an economic opportunity.” By investing in initiatives like solar panels and wind farms, Lammy emphasized the potential to create well-paying jobs and secure Britain’s prosperity. This aligns with Labour’s Green Prosperity Plan, aiming to accelerate growth in green industries while fortifying the nation against global challenges, as discussed at the 2023 New Delhi G20 Summit, where world leaders recognized the urgent need to limit the impacts of climate change.
David Lammy, a British politician, made a statement on May 15, 2023, at the University of London, regarding the rising costs of education in the UK. He highlighted the increasing financial burden on students and families, emphasizing the need for government intervention to make education more accessible. Lammy’s speech outlined the specific financial implications for students and proposed solutions, including the “Education Affordability Initiative,” a £500 million investment over five years to support scholarships and financial aid. He emphasized the importance of accessible education, saying, “Education is the key to unlocking opportunities and shaping a brighter future for our society. We must ensure that the cost of education does not become a barrier to success.”
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In a speech in the UK House of Commons on 15 August 2023, David Lammy, a dedicated Member of Parliament, focused on the urgent need for education reform and social justice. He passionately stated, “We must invest in our communities to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.” Lammy’s call for increased funding in disadvantaged areas struck a chord with many, igniting conversations and actions toward a more inclusive and equitable society. The “Empowering Futures Initiative,” a £10 million investment aimed at providing educational resources and opportunities to underprivileged communities, was at the heart of his proposal.
On June 5, 2019, in London, United Kingdom, David Lammy addressed far-right ideologies during an interview with Andrew Marr on the BBC. He emphasized the dangers posed by the rise of the far-right and stressed the importance of debunking extremist views. Lammy highlighted the vulnerability of minorities and immigrants to the consequences of extreme right-wing rhetoric. During the interview, Lammy stated, “We must stand up against the toxic rhetoric of the far-right and work towards a society that embraces diversity and inclusivity.” Following the interview, Lammy attended an event organized by anti-extremism organizations, part of the “United Against Extremism” initiative. This initiative, supported by £1 million in funding from the UK Government’s “Building a Stronger Britain Together” program, aims to combat hate crimes and promote social cohesion through community resilience and counter-narratives to extremism.
On September 4, 2019, at 3:00 PM in the House of Commons in London, David Lammy delivered an anti-Brexit speech during a debate on Brexit. The speech highlighted Lammy’s strong opposition to the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. In his speech, Lammy criticized the government’s handling of Brexit negotiations and warned of the potential consequences of leaving the EU without a deal. He argued that Brexit would hurt the UK’s economy, security, and international standing. Lammy stated, “This is the most serious crisis our country has faced since the Second World War. We are on the brink of the greatest crisis of modern times, and it is not too late to stop it.” The speech was part of a larger debate on Brexit, with a cost of £2.1 billion in potential economic losses, as the UK approached the October 31st deadline for leaving the EU.
On February 10, 2022, in London, United Kingdom, David Lammy delivered a speech at Parliament on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, emphasizing the need for a united response to Putin’s aggression. He called for increased sanctions and support for Ukraine, stating, “We must stand firm against Putin’s aggression and defend the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the rule of law.” Lammy highlighted the broader threat of Putinism and the importance of defending democracy and the liberal international order. During his address, he also discussed the potential impact of the conflict on international investment and trade, particularly in the context of the UK’s economic ties with Russia. Additionally, Lammy emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts, suggesting the UK could contribute to rebuilding projects in the country.
On January 23, 2023, David Lammy, the Shadow Foreign Secretary, delivered a speech at Chatham House in London as part of the “Rethinking UK Foreign Policy” conference. At the event held at Chatham House, 10 St James’s Square, London, SW1Y 4LE, Lammy outlined Labour’s approach for a “Britain reconnected, for security and prosperity at home.” Emphasizing the importance of rebuilding Britain’s international relationships and promoting economic growth, Lammy stated, “Our vision is clear: a Britain that leads with integrity, engages with the world, and champions prosperity for all.” The speech, moderated by Dr. Robin Niblett, Director of Chatham House, contributed to discussions on the future of UK foreign policy, highlighting Labour’s commitment to initiatives like the “Global Britain” project and the UK-India Free Trade Agreement.
On June 23, 2022, David Lammy delivered a speech on Brexit at the event “Labour’s vision for Britain in the world after Brexit” held at the Royal Institute of British Architects in London. During his speech, Lammy emphasized the importance of collaboration with the EU, economic partnerships, and finding solutions for the challenges posed by Brexit, particularly the Northern Ireland Protocol. He stated, “As we navigate the post-Brexit landscape, we must work closely with our European partners to ensure a prosperous future for all.” The event, hosted by The UK in a Changing Europe, provided a platform for discussing Britain’s role in the global arena following its exit from the EU. Additionally, Lammy highlighted the significance of the £500 million UK-EU Innovation Fund, a major investment project aimed at fostering innovation and economic growth post-Brexit.
On October 10, 2023, at the ACC Liverpool during the Labour Party Conference, Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy delivered a speech outlining Labour’s foreign policy approach. David Lammy stated, “The UK has a proud history of standing up for our values and interests on the global stage.” Emphasizing global engagement and values, Lammy highlighted plans for climate action, conflict prevention, and poverty alleviation. He expressed a vision for a just and sustainable world under a Labour government. The event united party members and politicians, showcasing Labour as a credible alternative on international issues. Lammy’s speech resonated with many, advocating for a proactive UK role. He also promoted the “Global Investment Initiative” for economic growth and innovation, reflecting Labour’s vision for a prosperous future.
On November 4, 2023, at the UK Parliament in London, David Lammy delivered a powerful speech during an emergency session on the Gaza Conflict. He condemned the violence and urged for immediate action to prevent further civilian casualties. Lammy emphasized the urgent need for a humanitarian pause in the fighting, stating, “The siege conditions in Gaza are unacceptable and must end. We need an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, and full humanitarian access to prevent more civilian deaths.” Additionally, he highlighted the potential impact of the conflict on the £27 million Gaza Reconstruction Project, stressing the importance of ensuring the safety of project personnel and the continuity of aid delivery to the affected population.
On February 20, 2022, at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, Wes Streeting delivered a speech and press release addressing the escalating Ukraine-Russia conflict. Streeting emphasized the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region. He stated, “The situation in Ukraine is critical, and we must prioritize peaceful resolutions to avoid a devastating conflict.” Streeting highlighted the proposed Peaceful Resolution Initiative, a diplomatic effort aimed at de-escalating the conflict through dialogue and negotiation. This event took place amidst heightened concerns over a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine, with Western leaders, including Streeting, urging immediate action to de-escalate the situation.
On September 15, 2022, at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, UK, Wes Streeting delivered a compelling speech at the National Education Summit. Streeting emphasized the critical role of education, stating, “Education is the foundation upon which we build a just, prosperous, and inclusive society.” He called for a £10 billion investment in education, introducing initiatives like the Education Equality Fund and the Future Leaders Program to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students. His vision for a transformed education system positioned the Labour Party as a champion of educational equity and excellence, resonating with attendees and setting the stage for impactful policy proposals and initiatives.
On March 15, 2023, in Birmingham, UK, Wes Streeting addressed attendees at the National Health Policy Conference. Streeting delivered a speech outlining his vision for healthcare reform, emphasizing the need for increased funding, including a £20 billion investment in the NHS, improved access to mental health services, and enhanced support for NHS staff. He proposed the implementation of the Health Equity Initiative and the Mental Health Access Program to address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. In his address, Streeting passionately stated, “Healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. We must ensure that every individual, regardless of background, has access to quality care. It’s time to prioritize the well-being of our nation.” Strating’s speech highlights the Labor Party’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare and ensuring a sustainable and inclusive healthcare system for all in the UK.
At the Labour Party Conference on October 11, 2023, in Liverpool, UK, Wes Streeting, Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary, delivered a speech outlining his vision for the NHS. Streeting emphasized the need for reform and investment, stating, “The NHS is the greatest institution in our country, and it’s time we start treating it with the care and attention it deserves.” He announced a £1.1 billion NHS Backlog Reduction and Community Care Improvement Project, plans to address the crisis in NHS dentistry, and investments in mental health support and NHS staff. Streeting’s speech highlighted Labour’s commitment to a sustainable NHS that provides high-quality care to all.
On December 18, 2023, at the “Ceasefire Negotiations” event in Gaza, Wes Streeting issued a press release calling for a political path to negotiate a ceasefire, stating, “The people of Gaza deserve peace and stability, and we must exhaust every avenue to achieve a lasting ceasefire.” Streeting advocated for diplomatic solutions through the proposed Peaceful Resolution Initiative, aimed at de-escalating the conflict through dialogue and negotiation. His stance reflected a commitment to peace and stability in the region, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation to address the crisis in Gaza. Streeting’s efforts showcase his dedication to fostering a more peaceful world in the face of challenging circumstances.
Personal Information | |
Full Name | David Lindon Lammy |
Birthday | 19 July 1972 (age 51) |
Spouse | Nicola Green ​(m. 2005) |
Number of Children | 3 |
Position | Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs |
Political Party | Labour |
Education | SOAS University of London (LLB)Harvard University (LLM) |
Political Career | |||
Position | Term | Preceded by | Succeeded by |
Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs | 29 November 2021 | Lisa Nandy | |
Shadow Secretary of State for JusticeShadow Lord Chancellor | 6 April 2020 – 29 November 2021 | Richard Burgon | Steve Reed |
Shadow Minister for Universities and Science | 12 May 2010 – 8 October 2010 | David Willetts | Gareth Thomas |
Minister of State for Higher Education and Intellectual Property | 5 October 2008 – 11 May 2010 | Bill Rammell | David Willetts |
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills | 29 June 2007 – 5 October 2008 | Office established | Siôn Simon |
Minister of State for Culture | 10 May 2005 – 28 June 2007 | Estelle Morris | Margaret Hodge |
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs | 13 June 2003 – 10 May 2005 | Office established | Bridget Prentice |
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Public Health | 29 May 2002 – 13 June 2003 | Yvette Cooper | Melanie Johnson |
Member of Parliamentfor Tottenham | 22 June 2000 | Bernie Grant | |
Member of the London Assembly as the 10th Additional Member | 4 May 2000 – 4 July 2000 | Constituency established | Jennette Arnold |