A message from Martin Forde QC, independent adviser on the design of the Windrush Compensation Scheme
Updated 3 September 2021
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/windrush-compensation-scheme/a-message-from-martin-forde-qc-independent-advisor-on-the-design-of-the-windrush-compensation-scheme
On 10 May 2018, the Home Secretary announced that I had been appointed to give independent advice to the Home Office regarding the design of a compensation scheme, to address issues arising from difficulties encountered by those who suffered as a result of having to demonstrate their immigration status.
The call for evidence lasted from May 10 to June 8 and the Home Office received several hundred responses and I also received many tens of responses directly. I am happy to continue to do so.
I have been strongly supported by Home Office staff, many of whom volunteered and some of whom have relatives affected by the application of recent immigration policies. I have been extremely impressed by their determination to try and investigate and collate all issues and to answer all of my queries, no matter how searching.
The determination of the Home Secretary, senior civil servants and staff to produce a fair and workable scheme has also been commendable.
I have also been approached directly by members of the Bar and solicitors as well as senior retired judges, overseas high commissioners, members of Parliament, community groups and activists, academics and affected individuals, offering assistance. The print and television media have also been extremely valuable in relaying matters of concern to me as well as enabling me to publicise my role both here and abroad.
With the launch of this formal consultation the real work starts now. I would urge as many people as possible from all backgrounds and interests to participate constructively in this consultation. The more detailed and considered the consultation responses the better the chances of designing a fair and comprehensive scheme. I am aware that many of you have experience of compensation schemes and you may well be able to offer workable solutions to assist in the design of the scheme.
I would therefore urge all of you to assist me in my task, which may encompass difficult and possibly novel areas of compensation, to work collaboratively with me as an independent adviser – I stress the word ‘independent’ - to produce a comprehensive, fair and accessible scheme.
Martin Forde QC