What's happened
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy spoke at Cabinet on Holocaust Memorial Day, hearing Mala Tribich's testimony. She urged ministers to combat antisemitism amid recent attacks, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and action. Lammy highlighted historic milestones for Black representation in UK politics.
What's behind the headline?
The significance of Lammy's speech lies in its intersection of racial representation and historical memory. His presence at PMQs and his role in addressing Holocaust remembrance signals a broader push for diversity and acknowledgment of Britain’s multicultural history. Mala Tribich’s emotional testimony underscores the urgent need for governments to confront antisemitism, especially as survivors grow fewer. The government’s response, promising action against hate, indicates a recognition that remembrance alone is insufficient. This moment foreshadows a potential shift in UK policy, emphasizing education and anti-hate measures, but whether these will materialize remains to be seen. The timing, amid international tensions and domestic racial issues, suggests a strategic move to reinforce national unity through shared history and diversity.
What the papers say
The Mirror reports on Lammy’s historic role and his speech on Holocaust Memorial Day, emphasizing his groundbreaking position and the significance of his presence in Parliament. The articles detail Mala Tribich’s emotional address to Cabinet, highlighting her plea for action against antisemitism and her personal history at Bergen-Belsen. Sky News and The Mirror both cover her call for ministers to 'do everything to tackle antisemitism,' with Sky emphasizing the emotional impact and the Prime Minister’s response. Contrasts between the sources reveal a shared focus on the emotional weight of Tribich’s testimony and the political implications of Lammy’s historic participation, illustrating a moment of national reflection and potential policy shift.
How we got here
David Lammy became the first Black man to answer Prime Minister's Questions in November 2025, succeeding Angela Rayner as Deputy PM. The UK government has increasingly acknowledged the importance of racial and historical issues, with Lammy and other trailblazers breaking barriers. The day also marked a focus on Holocaust remembrance, with survivors sharing their stories to combat rising antisemitism.
Go deeper
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The Holocaust Educational Trust is a British charity, based in London, whose aim is to "educate young people of every background about the Holocaust and the important lessons to be learned for today."
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.