A refreshingly clear statement from our new Foreign Secretary
British Sikhs need answers, plus Barbra Streissand and a fantastic job vacancy
Responding to China issuing arrest warrants for five people living outside Hong Kong, some living in the UK, David Cameron said last week:
“We will not tolerate any attempt by any foreign power to intimidate, harass or harm individuals or communities in the UK. This is a threat to our democracy and fundamental human rights.” Well said, David. Here’s the big BUT:
Since the revelations about the UK's involvement in Operation Blue Star in 1984, there has been a growing concern among British Sikhs, many of whom feel deeply connected to the events of that year, about a potential cover-up.
In one sentence Operation Blue Star was the Indian Government’s military attack on the Golden Temple, the Sikhs equivalent of the Vatican or Mecca. The concern revolves around the possibility that details of a UK role have been suppressed to avoid jeopardising relations with a more nationalistic India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Concerns about the Modi administration have been amplified by recent news about an assassination in Canada and foiled assassination plots in the United States.
The U.S. Department of Justice's indictment of an Indian government official for involvement in a plot to assassinate a Sikh activist in New York, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's accusation of Indian government agents' involvement in the murder of a Sikh activist in Canada, raise serious questions about India's foreign policy and tactics under Modi's leadership.
In considering the UK's response to these developments, it is instructive to look at the response to Russia's programme of extrajudicial killings, particularly the Skripal poisoning.
The UK's initial reluctance to take decisive action against Russia for this assassination attempt on our soil arguably emboldened Putin’s regime. The UK's response, or lack thereof, may have been seen as a sign of weakness or hesitation, encouraging further bold illegal actions by Russia.
The US and Canada have taken steps to call out the Modi government for its alleged involvement in these assassination plots. If evidence supports the existence of a policy of intimidation and extrajudicial action against Sikh activists in North America, it is not unreasonable to question whether similar activities could be occurring in the UK and Europe. Some Sikh groups have expressed their concerns in this regard.
Given these developments, it is crucial for the UK government to take proactive measures to reassure its Sikh community and to seek assurances from the Indian ambassador that such policies are not being pursued in the UK. The UK government's approach to these issues is critical in maintaining trust within our diverse communities.
The situation calls for vigilance and transparency. What does the UK Government know of these matters? What does Mr Sunak know? Mr Cameron’s statement last week is unambiguous. Sikhs needs answers and next year, I’m going to help them get them.
Listening
🌐 From Brooklyn to Hollywood Icon 🏙️
I am loving "My Name is Barbra" by Barbra Streisand. At nearly 1000 pages, this autobiography is a detailed account of her journey from a Brooklyn girl to global status as an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) icon.
I've just got to Chapter 14, and we've only just got to 'Funny Girl' in 1968, but I can't wait until we get to 'Yentl'. The way Barbra explains her personal growth and professional collaborations is fascinating. She was obsessed with film and TV production, from sound on the CBS special to lighting and editing on Funny Girl.
I'm listening to this book on Audible, and her unique voice, peppered with Yiddishisms and humorous asides, brings her story to life. "David Frost was seated at my table, extremely witty....although he did spit when he spoke. Well, you had to dodge it a bit."
The discussion of her battles to maintain artistic control of her work shows a resolve in the face of industry prejudices. She tells the story of Walter Matthau demeaning her making her cry on set of ‘Hello Dolly’ and it diminishes your view of him.
This book is the one that has surprised me most this year.
I love having Barbra's voice in my kitchen as I make the morning coffee. Where a song is required to underpin her point, it's played. It’s wonderful. Barbra Streissand's thoughtful reflections are a joy, offering a profound journey through her world and her artistic life's trials, triumphs, and intricate nuances.
This memoir is not just for her fans but for anyone interested in an in-depth, nuanced exploration of the life of a remarkable artist and the entertainment industry that shaped her.
Great job: Chief Executive Role at UK Music
I chair a wonderful organisation called UK Music. We are seeking a new Chief Executive. It's a big job because we don’t do things by halves. Previous CEOs include the lead singer of The Undertones and a Director of Strategy for the Prime Minister.
As a considerable national asset, the UK music industry is intertwined with public policy decisions. UK Music champions an integrated strategic approach, representing the collective interests of our member organisations. We also proudly serve as the secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Music, one of the largest APPGs in the Houses of Parliament.
Our unique organisational structure allows UK Music to voice the industry's concerns to Parliament and Government. We're at the forefront of developing impactful campaigns, enhancing sector understanding among policymakers, and demonstrating how legislative decisions affect the music industry. Our efforts have led to significant progress in copyright, planning, licensing, and finance.
The Chief Executive role at UK Music is crucial for our continued success and effectiveness. We are looking for someone with a rare blend of skills: an astute influencer, an instinctive public affairs professional capable of leading a high-performing team and understanding the subtleties of managing an umbrella organisation like ours.
The role promises support from an exceptional board and team of executive colleagues, building from a position of strength.
I eagerly anticipate meeting candidates who will bring new insights and perspectives to our industry, helping to illuminate the path forward for this fantastic sector.
For more information and to apply for this unparalleled opportunity, please visit our microsite here: https://bit.ly/3NrsoJT.
For a confidential conversation with our advisors at Cadence Partners or to receive candidate packs in alternative formats, contact: ukmusic@cadencepartners.co.uk. Closing date: 28 January 2024.
I am not sure it makes sense for the UK to be taking a hard line on India at this time of international tensions. To tackle Russia and China we need Europe, N.America and any other allies to stand strongly together. Their aim is explicit. China to expand it's territory and influence, Russia the same. It is refreshing to see David Cameron take such a line though considering the much different approach he had when he was PM. How much longer are we going to be able to fund the rise of China through our business with them and when will it be too late to pull out? It has been greatly naive to entangle ourselves economically and assume mutual reliance would provide pressure for societal change without first seeing a development in their political system.