Mr Speaker, Rt Hon John Bercow MP and Patron of the Patchwork Foundation announced the winners of the MP of the Year Awards 2016 sponsored by KPMG at Speakers House on 2nd November 2016, for those MPs who have represented and work well with underrepresented, deprived and minority communities across the country.

Patchwork - MP of the Year at Speakers House Photos: Alastair Fyfe. fyfephoto.com email: alastair@fyfephoto.com
Left to Right – John Pienaar (Patchwork Patron), Mr Speaker (Patchwork Patron), Mhairi Black MP, Siddiq Musa (KPMG Partner) & Sir Martyn Lewis (Patchwork Patron) Photos: Alastair Fyfe. fyfephoto.com

Mhairi Black MP said: “I am delighted that the Patchwork Foundation have given me this honour. Given what the Patchwork Foundation stands for – highlighting and celebrating engagement with underrepresented communities – it is a particularly wonderful award to receive. The fact that this award was nominated by the public is very heart-warming, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all who nominated me.”

Nicola Sturgeon, SNP Leader and MSP said: “The Patchwork Foundation is a fantastic organisation that plays an important role in promoting the involvement of underrepresented groups and minority communities in politics. Their Parliamentary Awards recognise and encourage the endeavours of individual MPs across the parties who are making efforts to get people from all walks of life engaged in politics. The SNP is committed to equality and to ensuring representation and inclusion for all communities, so I am proud that not one but three SNP MPs have been recognised for their contribution at this year’s event.  As the youngest MP in Parliament Mhairi Black has been an inspiration to many but particularly to young people and LGBTI people. Who can forget her maiden speech or the relentless work she has done raising the concerns of the WASPI women, speaking out for LGBTI equality, and challenging policies that would worsen poverty and disadvantage. She should be proud to be recognised as the Overall Newcomer MP of the Year. Congratulations to all those who have won or been nominated for an award – and to Patchwork for the excellent work they do.”

 

Siddiq Musa, KPMG Partner said: “We are delighted to sponsor these Patchwork Awards for the third year encouraging under represented communities to connect with the political process and celebrating those MPs from across the political divide who have really made a difference to inclusion.  The work done by their volunteers and the time they commit will hopefully inspire young people in all communities to fulfil their true potential.  How organisations work with, and within, their local communities is a critical part of inspiring young people.  That’s why KPMG pioneered a School Leaver Programme, a Business Support Academy and also launched our 360 degree apprenticeship programme.  We have committed ourselves to target ranges spanning across the four areas of gender, ethnicity, disability and sexual orientation.  Everyone has the right to feel safe from discrimination and bring their whole self to work, into Parliament or civic life so that they can fulfil their own potential and make a difference to business, our communities and to people’s lives and opportunities.”