Speaker’s Statement

Lindsay Hoyle Excerpts

Wednesday 21st October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Before we come to Prime Minister’s questions, may I extend a warm welcome to the Speaker of the National Assembly of Zimbabwe and his cross-party delegation who are with us today?

Colleagues will know that today marks the 60th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster, which claimed the lives of 116 children and 28 adults. As a child, I remember the shock that went across the nation when the news of the disaster broke, so last week it was very haunting to meet David Davies, the chairman of the Aberfan Memorial Charity and a survivor. Hearing his recollections of that horrific day was incredibly moving. I know that the whole House will join me in paying tribute to those who lost their lives, their families and the whole community in Aberfan and the surrounding area for their courageous spirit and dignity in the aftermath of that tragic event.