An early chance to thank UK ministers for historic mission
Report and photos from Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy
Just four days after paratroops made their historic drop onto Tristan da Cunha carrying vital medical aid, the State Opening of Parliament on 13th May brought an early chance to say thanks in person.
After the speech by King Charles, I met Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, overseas territories minister Stephen Doughty, and armed forces minster Al Carns. To each I conveyed the enormous gratitude of the people of Tristan da Cunha for the history-making operation that delivered crucial supplies and personnel to the world's remotest community. It's been a great comfort that the skill and courage of the UK's armed forces, and the dedication of its civil service, were there when the island needed them most. I spoke at length with minister Carns, a former Royal Marine who was personally involved in planning the operation; he plans to meet and congratulate the personnel involved.
There will be more ways to express thanks once the incident is fully over, but this was a special opportunity to do so in person, and it was truly heartfelt.
Chris Carnegy with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
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| Chris Carnegy in Westminster Hall after the King's speech | Chris with overseas territories minister Stephen Doughty |
Chris with armed forces minister Al Carns