Marking Thai Pongal, Britain's Leader of the Opposition, alongside numerous other MPs have issued statements celebrating the contribution of British Tamils to life in the UK and reaffirming their commitment to supporting Tamils in their struggle for self-determination, truth, justice and accountability.

His full statement is reproduced below:

Today, Tamils both in the UK and around the world celebrate Thai Pongal, the Tamil harvest festival. May the harvest festival bring abundant blessings, prosperity, and happiness. As we gather with family and friends, let us celebrate the spirit of unity, gratitude, and the rich Tamil culture that defines this special occasion. 

I also take this opportunity to thank the British Tamil community and highlight the many contributions they have made to the social, economic and cultural fabric of our country. Their contributions in academia, medicine, business, arts, literature and science have made our communities and our country stronger. I'd like to extend a special congratulations to the hard work and success of the Tamil students who have come from around the world. 

This is also a time for us to remember the sacrifices made by the Tamil people for self determination, peace and justice in Sri Lanka. Labour will continue to push the UK government to act on their clear responsibility to ensure the Sri Lankan government no longer delay in supporting justice, accountability and reconciliation, and a Labour government will work with our international partners, standing shoulder to shoulder with Tamil communities, to help build peace and political stability in Sri Lanka.

On behalf of everyone at the Labour Party I want to wish you a very happy and peaceful Thai
Pongal.