This Diwali is the first since the landmark post-Brexit trade agreement between the UK and India came into force, according to former MP Dame Theresa Villiers. Writing in a guest column, she highlighted the festival's significance and the contribution of the Indian diaspora to British life.
Celebrating Shared Values and Diaspora Success
Dame Theresa, who represented Chipping Barnet, noted that Diwali is now a well-established event in the UK's national calendar. She described it as a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil, with a message that can speak to everyone.
She recalled the privilege of representing a constituency in Barnet with a significant Hindu population, and valued the support and friendship she received from the Hindu community during her years in Westminster. She also acknowledged the huge contribution of the Indian diaspora to British life, noting that many arrived with almost nothing, especially those forced out of Uganda by Idi Amin's regime.
Trade Deal Benefits and Tariff Reductions
Dame Theresa described the trade agreement as one of the biggest, most ambitious free trade deals India has ever signed, and said it would not have been possible without Brexit. It is expected to deliver lower prices for consumer goods, with British exporters due to benefit from reductions in 90% of India's tariff lines and access to India's £38 billion procurement market.
She noted that India's 150% duty on whisky was halved when the treaty came into effect in July, and is due to fall to 40% within ten years. Whisky is one of the UK's biggest physical exports, and she recalled the massive importance the industry placed on efforts to get the India tariff down during her time as Secretary of State for DEFRA.
A Living Bridge Between Countries
Dame Theresa said British Indians have found a balance of belonging wholeheartedly to the UK while retaining their distinctive heritage. She noted that the diaspora community provides a living bridge between the UK and the world's biggest democracy, and that strengthening ties with India as its economy grows provides a massive opportunity.
She wished all Express readers a very Happy Diwali and hoped everyone marking the festival has a chance to spend time with friends and family.
