This year’s Black History Month theme, “Honouring Our Communities,” is an opportunity not only to reflect on our history, but to recognise the people whose courage, service and determination contin…

This year’s Black History Month theme, “Honouring Our Communities,” is an opportunity not only to reflect on our history, but to recognise the people whose courage, service and determination continue to shape Britain today.

It was a real privilege to welcome President Emmanuel Macron and Madame Brigitte Macron on their arrival in the United Kingdom at RAF Northolt, on behalf of His Majesty The King. The visit was an important moment in the longstanding relationship between the United Kingdom and France, reflecting the close ties between our two countries and the value of continued cooperation across our shared interests.

Sometimes the most precious part of a holiday is not where you go, but who you have the opportunity to spend it with. This summer, I had the joy of being in Spain with four generations of my family, ranging in age from five to 85. There was something very special about all of us being under one roof. In everyday life, families can so easily be pulled in different directions by work, school, responsibilities, appointments and the general busyness of life.

Today, Jamaica celebrates 64 years of independence, marking a remarkable journey as a nation and an enduring contribution to the world. It is a moment to celebrate how far Jamaica has come, recogni…

Today, Jamaica celebrates 64 years of independence, marking a remarkable journey as a nation and an enduring contribution to the world. It is a moment to celebrate how far Jamaica has come, recognise its many achievements and look forward with confidence to its future. Jamaica has made an extraordinary contribution to the world through its rich culture, creativity, innovation and, above all, the achievements of its people.

It is an honour to have been appointed as a Baroness in Waiting (Government Whip) in the House of Lords as part of the latest ministerial appointments. I am delighted to have the opportunity to ser…

It is an honour to have been appointed as a Baroness in Waiting (Government Whip) in the House of Lords as part of the latest ministerial appointments. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role and look forward to working with colleagues from across the House. Some may be familiar with Government Whips in the House of Commons, but the role is a little different in the House of Lords.

Screenshot Six months ago, I took the Oath and joined the House of Lords. Since then, I have had the privilege of contributing to debates, questioning Ministers, scrutinising legislation and learni…

At a time when public debate can feel increasingly polarised, our arts and cultural institutions have never been more important. In a world where too many conversations take place through algorithm…

What do we owe those who serve our country once they leave the Armed Forces? For me, that question goes to the heart of the debate surrounding the Armed Forces Bill currently before Parliament. Dur…

Can you remember your first live music concert? Chances are you can remember not just the music, but who you were with and how it made you feel. For many of us, it is almost a rite of passage. The …

Over recent months, I’ve spoken to a number of people looking for work. Many were young people starting their careers, but others were graduates, career changers and experienced professionals seeki…

It was a privilege to attend Lewisham’s Armed Forces Day event today, joining veterans, serving personnel and members of our local community in recognising those who serve, or have served, in our a…

Today I spoke in the House of Lords during the Second Reading of the National Security (State Threats) Bill. You can read my speech here. (5:41pm) The threats posed by hostile states are real and e…

Today is International Women in Engineering Day, a chance to celebrate the achievements of women engineers and to inspire more women and girls to consider careers in engineering, science and techno…

Every year, Windrush Day gives us an opportunity to reflect on a defining part of our nation’s story and to recognise the generations whose contributions helped shape modern Britain. Windrush Day h…

Today I spoke in the House of Lords during a debate marking 10 years since the murder of Jo Cox and reflecting on the recommendations of the Jo Cox Civility Commission. You can read my speech in fu…

What does it really mean to create a society where neurodivergent people feel understood, supported and able to thrive? Too often conversations around autism and neurodivergence focus only on aware…

Today in the House of Lords, I spoke in support of the Commercial Payments Bill during its Second Reading debate. This Bill addresses an issue that causes real frustration and real damage to many s…

As my term as Mayor of Lewisham comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who makes this borough what it is: our residents, businesses, community organisations, faith…

I’m proud of what we’ve achieved in Lewisham, and confident that with Amanda De Ryk we can deliver even more for our communities. You can read the full manifesto here. Yesterday marked an important…

Following extensive collaboration with the Council, Millwall Football Club has now signed all lease agreements, enabling progress on improvements to The Den and unlocking plans for new homes, jobs, pu...