News story

Prime Minister's message for Vaisakhi

"Vaisakhi is a time to celebrate with loved ones and I hope that all those celebrating today enjoy this special time."

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

The Prime Minister David Cameron has sent warm wishes to those celebrating Vaisakhi.

Mr Cameron said:

I would like to send my best wishes to the many Sikhs and Hindus in the United Kingdom and around the world as they celebrate Vaisakhi.

Your communities have demonstrated some of the values I believe are essential for building a stronger and better society: support for the family, a belief in enterprise, a pride in self reliance.  The immense contribution to the cultural and economic fabric of this country is clear to see.  In every area you have excelled and in doing so have further enriched our society.

I think people of all faiths can identify with the celebration of Vaisakhi, that a good life is lived as part of a community, by living honestly and caring for others.  This strong community spirit was demonstrated most memorably during the riots last summer when the community in South Ealing came together to protect and clean up their neighbourhood. There are many values that we share today; a belief in a strong community and the importance of the family.This is what unites us and makes us stronger.

Vaisakhi is a time to celebrate with loved ones and I hope that all those celebrating today enjoy this special time.

Published 13 April 2012