In a landmark development for Indian-origin political representation, the UK Parliament is poised to welcome a record 29 MPs of Indian descent following the 2024 general election. Labour Dominates Among Indian-Origin MPs
The Labour Party has emerged as the leading party for People of Indian Origin (PIO) MPs, securing 19 seats—a significant rise from previous terms. According to a report by The Times of India, Labour introduced 12 new PIO MPs, adding to its diverse representation. Key incumbents such as Lisa Nandy, Nadia Whittome, Navendu Mishra, Preet Gill, Valerie Vaz, and Seema Malhotra comfortably retained their seats. Meanwhile, Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi held onto Slough despite a reduced majority, and Thangam Debbonaire lost Bristol Central to the Green Party, reflecting intense competition even in Labour strongholds.
Notable Political Figures
- Rishi Sunak: The incumbent Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, retained his seat in northern England despite his Conservative Party’s overall defeat. Labour’s landslide victory, with 378 seats, marked a significant shift in the political landscape. Sunak, the first British Asian Prime Minister, acknowledged his supporters’ dedication on social media, highlighting his tenure as Chancellor of the Exchequer and his ongoing parliamentary career since 2015.
- Preet Kaur Gill: Representing the Labour Party, Preet Kaur Gill was re-elected from Birmingham Edgbaston. Known for her role as the Shadow Minister for Primary Care and Public Health, Gill remains committed to her constituents.
- Priti Patel: Former Home Secretary Priti Patel retained her Witham seat in Essex with 37.2% of the vote. A key Conservative figure, Patel has been an MP since 2010 and served as Home Secretary from 2019 to 2022.
- Gagan Mohindra: Re-elected from South West Herts, Conservative Gagan Mohindra secured his seat with 16,458 votes. His family’s roots in Punjab and his grandfather’s service in the British Indian Army add to his rich heritage.
This historic increase underscores the growing influence and participation of the Indian community in British politics.
- Kanishka Narayan: Making history as Wales’ first MP from a minority ethnic background, Kanishka Narayan of the Labour Party defeated former Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns. Narayan’s journey from India to Cardiff and his impressive career reflect his dedication to public service.
- Navendu Mishra: Labour’s Navendu Mishra was re-elected in Stockport, continuing his service since 2019 and reinforcing Labour’s regional strength.
- Lisa Nandy: Retaining her Wigan seat with ease, Labour’s Lisa Nandy is celebrated for her work in race relations and has been an MP since 2010.
- Suella Braverman: Despite controversies, Conservative Suella Braverman secured seats from Fareham and Waterlooville. Her career includes roles as Attorney General and chair of the European Research Group.
- Shivani Raja: Claiming the Leicester East seat, formerly held by Labour, Shivani Raja’s local roots and professional achievements underscore her commitment to her community.
- Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi: The first turbaned Sikh MP in British Parliament, Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, expressed gratitude to his supporters upon his re-election from Slough.
These victories mark a significant milestone, highlighting the contributions and growing influence of Indian-origin politicians in the UK’s political arena.
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