‘Nepal will be a priority for the next Labour government’

London – Former Minister of State for International Development, Gareth Thomas, has said Nepal will be a priority for the next Labour government.

Talking to Nepali community leaders at South Harrow on Sunday, the outgoing Labour MP said he had visited Nepal twice and loved the country and people. “I was an opposition MP in 2016 and sponsored a motion calling upon the British government to expedite its support in the reconstruction efforts in Nepal a year after the devastating earthquake,” said Thomas adding, “I had moved the motion since media attention fades after a major catastrophe, but I wanted to ensure that the agenda doesn’t slide down the priority.”

Appreciating the contributions of Gurkhas in the bilateral relations, Mr Thomas praised the contributions Nepali diaspora is making to the British economy and society. “Nepalese are hardworking and law-abiding people and we are proud to have you as members of our community.”

During the interaction, Nepali community leaders drew the attention of Mr Thomas towards lack of ATM points at South Harrow and rising instances of anti-social behaviour. Responding to them, Mr Thomas said if elected the new Labour government will address these problems with priority.

Mr Thomas, who represents Harrow West, since 1997 is seeking re-election from the same constituency in the general elections scheduled for 4th July.