Ed Miliband MP, Leader of the Labour Party, commenting on the unveiling of the Mahatma Gandhi statue outside the British Parliament said:

 “With Gandhi’s death a light went out for people across the world, but his legacy continues to illuminate India and the world to this day.

 “Gandhi was an inspiration. He showed us that change comes when people stand up for what is right and just, whatever the odds they face. Gandhi’s values of truth, solidarity, non-violence, humanity and equality inspired a generation across the world and continue to inspire us in Britain today.

 “Gandhi also helped to build a free nation that places those values at its heart. Britain and India have a special relationship, built not only on the mutual benefit of our fraternity, but upon the bonds of a history of friendship. The British Indian community make a vital contribution at all levels of life to the UK, bringing diversity and acting as a bridge between our nations. This monument is for all of them as well.

 “I am immensely proud to see the unveiling of this permanent monument to Gandhi in Parliament Square, where I hope it can serve as a reminder of the friendship between our nations and a reminder of the power of people to change the world for the better.”