Keir Starmer has vowed a “fundamental reset to respect and dignity” for the Windrush generation, promising that a Labour Government will “turn the page and put things right for those who have given so much.”
On the anniversary of the Windrush landing, the Labour leader will reflect on the profound contributions of the Windrush generation, pledging that “never again will a community be so scarred by Government.” Addressing members of the Windrush generation in London, Starmer criticised the Conservative Government for their handling of the compensation scheme, describing it as “failing” and “overly complex.”
Campaigners have long criticised the Compensation Scheme, which has seen only 2,459 claims paid out of an estimated 15,000 eligible individuals. At least 53 victims have tragically passed away while awaiting compensation. A 2024 report further highlighted that the Windrush Compensation Scheme (WCS) had the lowest success rate and the highest refusal rate compared to other schemes.
In what he described as a “fundamental reset moment” for the community, Starmer committed to delivering justice for the scandal’s victims, promising reforms to both the Home Office and the Compensation Scheme. He outlined Labour’s plans to introduce a Windrush Commissioner to prevent such a scandal from recurring and to oversee the compensation process.
“The Conservatives have sat on their hands rather than delivering justice,” Starmer charged. The proposed Commissioner will act as a voice for affected families, ensuring the Compensation Scheme operates fairly and reinstating the major change programme within the Home Office.
Labour’s plans include improving community engagement to encourage compensation applications, organising reconciliation events that the Conservatives have neglected, and streamlining the compensation process to make it more accessible. Starmer reaffirmed Labour’s commitment to re-establishing the Windrush Unit within the Home Office, a vital initiative disbanded by Suella Braverman, to implement recommendations from the Lessons Learned review and embed lasting cultural change.
“The Windrush generation embodies the best of Britain: determination, spirit, public service, and graft,” Starmer stated. “But instead of being thanked, they’ve been badly mistreated. A Labour government will offer a fundamental reset moment for the Windrush generation, with respect and dignity at its very core.”
Starmer concluded by stressing the importance of integrity and honesty in public life, vowing to restore trust in government systems and prioritise the needs of working people. “Justice has taken far too long for the Windrush community. A government that I lead won’t let this happen again.”
