Jeevun Sandher, newly elected MP for the Labour party after this month's landslide victory, aims to rebuild trust in politics and strengthen ties with India and its diaspora. The British Sikh MP from Loughborough, a key constituency in the East Midlands, sees his role as an opportunity to enhance the relationship between the UK and India.
Highlighting the recent visit of UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy to India, Sandher emphasised the importance the new government places on this bilateral relationship. He remarked, “From a personal perspective, I am part of the Indian diaspora, so I see it as a natural connection for the Labour party and the incoming Labour government.”
He noted the strategic significance of the UK-India partnership, mentioning the ongoing trade deal negotiations and the mutual benefits both nations could achieve. Born in Luton to parents who migrated from Punjab, Sandher frequently visits India and remains connected through his work with voluntary organisations like Labour Indians.
Sandher expressed pride in his Indian heritage and the contributions of the Indian community in the UK. Reflecting on his diverse background as an economist, political strategist, and former teacher in Somaliland, he feels well-prepared for his new role in Parliament.
In Loughborough, Sandher's primary goals include increasing financial prosperity through clean energy investments, improving the NHS, and reducing crime by hiring more police officers and establishing youth hubs. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about delivering on his promises.
The MP highlighted the wave of optimism following the recent election, recognising the significant challenges left by the previous Conservative government. Sandher is committed to achieving change and addressing the country's current crisis, understanding the immense task at hand as he adapts to his new parliamentary role. (PTI)
Moglai Bap and Mo Chara of Kneecap perform at Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm in Pilton, Somerset, Britain, June 28, 2025. REUTERS/Jaimi Joy
Police may probe anti-Israel comments at Glastonbury
BRITISH police said they were considering whether to launch an investigation after performers at Glastonbury Festival made anti-Israel comments during their shows.
"We are aware of the comments made by acts on the West Holts Stage at Glastonbury Festival this afternoon," Avon and Somerset Police, in western England, said on X late on Saturday (28).
Irish hip-hop group Kneecap and punk duo Bob Vylan made anti-Israeli chants in separate shows on the West Holts stage on Saturday. One of the members of Bob Vylan chanted "Death, death, to the IDF" in a reference to the Israel Defense Forces.
"Video evidence will be assessed by officers to determine whether any offences may have been committed that would require a criminal investigation," the police statement said.
The Israeli Embassy in Britain said it was "deeply disturbed by the inflammatory and hateful rhetoric expressed on stage at the Glastonbury Festival".
Prime minister Keir Starmer said earlier this month it was "not appropriate" for Kneecap to appear at Glastonbury.
The band's frontman Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh was charged with a terrorism offence last month for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah at a concert in November. He has denied the charge.
A British government minister said it was appalling that the anti-Israel chants had been made at Glastonbury, and that the festival's organisers and the BBC broadcaster - which is showing the event - had questions to answer.
Health secretary Wes Streeting said he was also appalled by violence committed by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank.
"I'd also say to the Israeli Embassy, get your own house in order in terms of the conduct of your own citizens and the settlers in the West Bank," Streeting told Sky News.
"I wish they'd take the violence of their own citizens towards Palestinians more seriously," he said.
(Reuters)