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Minister Charles Jr. has secured the continued commitment of the UK Home Secretary in resolving the Windrush crisis. This pledge was made to Senator the Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade by the Rt. Honourable Sajid Javid during in a meeting held on 18th June at the UK Home Office.

The Home Secretary advised that based on the commitment, the work of the Commonwealth Taskforce will be ongoing and the waiver of fees will continue indefinitely for the Windrush Generation, pre-1973. Legislation has also been drafted to change the law to introduce the Windrush Settlement Scheme which will streamline the process utilising a single form.

Minister Charles Jr. said that while he was appeased by the overall approach being taken by the UK Government it was important to have clarity regarding the procedural steps in resolving this matter. He assured
that Jamaica would continue to work with the UK authorities in raising further awareness of the situation and in advancing the settlement process.

The Home Secretary also used the opportunity to announce the UK Government’s plans to commemorate an annual Windrush Day to be observed on 22nd June each year, which will be supported by a grant of up to £500,000 for communities wanting to host commemorative and educational events.

The Minister is currently in the United Kingdom on a weeklong engagement with officials, private sector and voluntary organisations on matters of importance to the Diaspora.

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