Conservative Friends of India recently celebrated Diwali at a reception at the Mint Leaf restaurant in the Haymarket. The event was hosted by Shailesh Vara MP and Ranjit Singh Baxi, the two Co-Chairmen of the group.
The event focused on young professionals and the other speakers during the evening were Rishi Sunak MP and Robert Courts MP. In the case of Mr Courts, it was his first engagement since recently being elected the MP for Witney, where he replaced former Prime Minister, David Cameron.
Rishi Sunak spoke about minority engagement in British politics and abroad while Robert Courts commented on the importance of family and the bond between Britain and India.
Shailesh Vara MP, Co-Chairman of CF India spoke of the increased number of British Indians giving their support to the Conservative Party and why it is important for the community to become more involved in public life - as local councillors, school governors, Magistrates as well as standing for Parliament. He added, "Diwali is an important festival which is celebrated throughout the world and it was good to celebrate it with so many of my fellow Parliamentarians and CF India members. It was certainly a very enjoyable evening."
Mr Ranjit Singh Baxi spoke of the strengthening of UK-India ties, particularly in terms of stronger and better trade relations.
Others attending the event included Michael Ellis MP, Amanda Milling MP, Paul Scully MP, Mike Wood MP and Lord Gadhia together with over 100 CF India Members.
