Bob Blackman is a member of the British Parliament and who has worked extensively to create opportunities and for the Indian diaspora living in the UK.
Prior to becoming an MP, Blackman was a prominent member of local government, leading the Conservative group at the Brent Borough Council and sitting in the London Assembly. He was elected to Parliament in 2010, representing the Greater London constituency of Harrow East.
Since joining Parliament he has had a strong focus on India, chairing the All Party Parliamentary Group for India and frequently hosting events for the Indian community. His work was recently honored by the Indian government with the Padma Shri award.
Blackman was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2023 Birthday Honors for political and public service.
His other interests include local governments, homelessness, health and foreign affairs. Excerpts of an interview with Bob Blackman follow.
Vidhi Bubna: How are UK-India ties expected to strengthen in the upcoming years?
Bob Blackman: Currently, the UK and India are in the process of negotiating their first-ever free-trade deal, although the talks have been ongoing for a while. Both nations aim to finalize the deal before India’s upcoming elections and the UK’s general election next year.
The negotiations focus on opening India’s closed economy to UK services, such as legal and accounting services, while India seeks market access for its goods and services, possibly encountering concerns regarding visa numbers.
Amidst these talks, both countries signed a cooperation agreement on security, defense, and cyber issues. India’s diplomatic success was evident at the recent G20 conference, where early agreement on key matters showcased India’s prowess.
Despite challenges from China’s influence, the UK-India relationship remains promising. The ongoing negotiations signify a historic opportunity for both nations, given India’s rapid economic growth and its potential to enhance global trade dynamics.
VB: Tell us about some campaigns and projects you have run in Harrow, a region with a large Indian population?
BB: I’ve been involved in various projects in Harrow, primarily focused on the vibrant Indian diaspora in the UK. Most of them are entrepreneurs, originating from Gujarat, India. They contribute significantly to the economy by establishing businesses, creating jobs, and playing vital roles in health care.
While my constituency is mainly residential, I’ve actively supported the construction of temples, like the Neasden temple, and facilitated the growth of religious organizations. Additionally, I’ve been engaged in visa-related issues for Indians studying or working in the UK.
I’ve visited over half of India’s states and received the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Indian government, marking a significant recognition of my contributions, despite the postponed ceremony due to Covid-19 restrictions.
VB: How does your personal, political and social philosophy resonate with Indians living in the United Kingdom?
BB: My core beliefs revolve around individual freedom within the law, emphasizing self-reliance, strong family values, and law and order. I advocate for national defense and the safety of our boundaries and global interests. I strongly support religious freedom, actively engaging with peaceful religious organizations.
In my constituency, where 75% consider religion vital, I champion the right to worship without intimidation. People should celebrate their faith freely and peacefully, which is a principle I staunchly uphold.
VB: What are some places you hope to travel to in India?
BB: I’ve visited several major cities in India like Srinagar, Jammu, Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Each city has its unique charm, but the traffic can be quite challenging.
I’ve spent time in Ahmedabad, witnessing its remarkable economic growth. I’ve also been to the Taj Mahal and opened a hospital wing in Kerala, promoting the blend of Ayurveda and modern medicine.
While I can’t plan future trips [for] security reasons, I’m open to exploring more of India soon, especially at the invitation of people in Kerala who are doing meaningful work.
VB: Currently, many Indian students are visiting the UK for their education, and this poses a significant financial stress on them since the international student fee is almost three times that of the fee paid by a domestic student. Are there any plans to create a more equitable policy around this in the future?
BB: We warmly welcome Indian students to our world-class universities in the UK. Contrary to a common myth, there is no limit on student numbers. However, universities set fees based on economic considerations and don’t receive public subsidies.
While students face travel, tuition, and living expenses, they can’t do part-time work to offset costs. We’ve overcome issues of exploitation faced by students in the past. Students can extend their stay post-studies if they secure relevant employment, ensuring a valuable educational experience.
Our hope is that, after their studies, students return to India, contributing to our strong bilateral relationship and fostering mutual economic growth.
VB: How is intercultural understanding between the UK and India being boosted?
BB: In fostering mutual understanding, the openness of Hindu, Jain, and Sikh religions in welcoming people from different faiths into their temples is commendable. Encouraging other religions to adopt similar inclusivity can break down perceived barriers between people, enhancing mutual understanding in both the UK and India.
Government intervention isn’t necessary; it’s about religions being more open and embracing.
VB: What are some of your key goals this upcoming year? What transformation do you want to create for the Indian community in the UK?
BB: In the upcoming general election, our main focus is on securing a re-election. Internationally, our priorities include finalizing the India-UK trade deal and enhancing defense and security cooperation, especially in response to threats from Russia and China.
Nationally, our goals involve boosting the economy, increasing disposable income for citizens, and addressing cost-of-living concerns. Locally, we aim to improve health care, education, and transportation. We’re investing in local hospital development, increasing police presence, and countering rising crime rates.
Ensuring essential services like health care, education, and transportation while maintaining reasonable taxation forms the core of our local agenda.
VB: How are you planning to include climate justice and climate activism in your agenda?
BB: The world is witnessing severe climate impacts, including melting ice in Antarctica and rising ocean temperatures leading to floods and extreme weather. India aims to become a solar leader, while the UK focuses on offshore wind.
The challenge lies in convincing people to embrace climate-change measures despite potential costs. Governments need to communicate consequences effectively. India, as a developing nation, faces unique challenges, especially in providing electricity to rural areas.
While India shouldn’t be lectured, having a plan to transition from fossil fuels is crucial. China’s continuous coal-power expansion poses a significant global climate threat.