Windrush Memorial Anchor Campaign Raised in House of Commons Debate
Windrush Memorial Anchor Campaign Raised in House of Commons Debate
On 16 June 2025, a debate on Windrush Day was held in the House of Commons, secured by Helen Hayes MP.
The MP also mentioned a campaign that I am proud to be a part of alongside four other people – a national initiative to retrieve the anchor of the Empire Windrush from the bottom of the Mediterranean, so it may serve as a lasting memorial and educational symbol for future generations.
The debate included reference to the Windrush Memorial Anchor Foundation, a national campaign to recover the anchor of the HMT Empire Windrush from the Mediterranean Sea.
The campaign team includes:
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Patrick Vernon OBE – Campaign Lead
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Reverend Michael King – Son of Sam King, Windrush passenger and first Black Mayor of Southwark
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Marie van der Zyl – President, Board of Deputies of British Jews
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David Mearns OAM – Director, Blue Water Recoveries Ltd
The late Julian Clark, former Vice President and Senior Legal Advisor at Gard (UK) Ltd, played a key role in the formation of the initiative.
Our aim is simple but profound: to retrieve and restore the Empire Windrush’s anchor – not just as a historical object, but as a powerful reminder of migration, contribution and the unfinished work of justice.