STATUE OF NELSON MANDELA AND TRAFALGAR SQUARE

Early day motion 1167, tabled 8 May 2003 by Diane Abbott (Labour). Signed by 125 members.

That this House notes the improvements to Trafalgar Square involving the pedestrianisation of the north terrace of this historic site; further notes the proposal for a statue of Nelson Mandela to be placed on the north terrace overlooking the Square; recalls the support given by millions of Britons to the overthrow of apartheid in South Africa; recognises the extraordinary personal commitment of Mr Donald Woods in the struggle to defeat racism in South Africa; commends the hard work of Wendy Woods, Lord Richard Attenborough and the countless others to complete Donald Woods' vision of placing a statue of Mr Mandela in this prominent position in Trafalgar Square; recognises the widespread international backing for the siting of a statue of Dr Mandela in this position, including the personal endorsement of Dr Mandela himself; and urges that planning permission for a statue of this great international statesman on this site to be given swiftly in order to expedite this honour from the people of Britain.

Signatures by party: Labour 92, Liberal Democrat 14, Labour/Co-operative 11, Plaid Cymru 3, Scottish National Party 3, Conservative 1, Independent 1.