THE recent UK elections have ushered in the most diverse parliament in the nation’s history. Under the leadership of newly elected Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Labour Party’s victory not only marks a shift in political power but is also a significant step towards diversity within the House of Commons. Notably, a total of 15 British Pakistani MPs have been elected. Among them, the appointment of Shabana Mahmood as lord chancellor stands out as a historic achievement. Ms Mahmood is the first woman to hold this prestigious position, and also the first lord chancellor to speak Urdu and take oath on the Holy Quran. Her elevation to such a significant role sets a powerful example for women and people of colour. The increased representation of British Pakistanis in parliament reflects in seasoned politicians such as Afzal Khan, Imran Hussain and Naz Shah, as well as newcomers including Dr Zubir Ahmed and Naushabah Khan. Their victories in the election show that, despite obstacles, it is possible for ethnic minorities to participate in public service. The broader picture of this election reveals that 13pc of the House of Commons is of Black, Asian or ethnic minority background — an increase from 10pc in 2019. This shift brings the composition of parliament closer to reflecting the diversity of Britain’s population, where some 18pc of the people come from minority backgrounds. Interestingly, however, this fact is not reflected in the new prime minister’s cabinet, with many pointing out that former prime minister Rishi Sunak had more diversity at the ministerial level.

The make-up of the new parliament is a testament to the growing influence of minority communities in the UK’s political landscape. No doubt these communities have battled, and will continue to fight, discrimination, racism and bias in society. But their inclusion shows that representation is the new norm across political parties, and that the voices of their communities will be heard.

Published in Dawn, July 17th, 2024