Views sought on new memorial for victims of terror
Government launches consultation to seek views on a national memorial for British victims of overseas terrorism
A consultation has been launched today (22 January 2016) to seek views from those who may have been affected by an incident of overseas terror.
This follows an announcement in 2015 that the Government will create a new national memorial to remember British citizens who have lost their lives in acts of terrorism overseas.
The views received will help to shape thinking around plans for the memorial, where it should be and the form it should take so that the memorial is a timeless, meaningful and fitting tribute to the loved ones who have been lost through acts of terrorism overseas.
Families and friends of victims, individuals or groups who support victims or members of the public who have been affected are asked to complete the consultation and provide their thoughts and opinions.
Foreign Office Minister for Counter Terrorism, Tobias Ellwood said:
It is a sad fact that we live in very difficult and dangerous times. Sadly, there are victims of terrorism whose families do not have a place where they can grieve.
It is therefore appropriate that we have a national memorial for those caught up in terrorism abroad. These people must never be forgotten and I encourage anyone who has been affected to have their say.
Mike Haines, brother of David Haines who was murdered by Daesh said:
Like so many others these days we have lost a brother, friend, husband, father, son and granddad at the hands of terrorists. This small minority seek to sow fear and hatred in our daily lives. Around our world we have seen with recent events so many have suffered, in so many nations. We cannot let this evil win.
Our family have lost an integral part, which cannot be replaced or mended. We have been devastated by my brother’s loss and know that other families have been affected in the same way. I would say to them, come and join us, be part of this memorial. Share the grief and help celebrate the lives of those cut short by terrorism. Let us not send them gently into that good night.
We all have different ways of remembering our loved ones. Let’s come together to find a common ground. A common ground in which we all can share and be part of building communities and not dividing our society. A memorial that stands for all our grief.
Further information
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It was announced in July 2015 that a national memorial for victims of overseas terror would be created
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The consultation will run for 6 weeks and close at midday on Friday 4 March
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Follow Foreign Office Minister Tobias Ellwood on Twitter @Tobias_Ellwood
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Follow the Foreign Office on Twitter @foreignoffice
Updates to this page
Last updated 22 January 2016 + show all updates
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Added in link to consultation
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First published.