Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has today welcomed the Government's apology to victims and survivors of historic forced adoption practices, while urging institutions involved to offer meaningful and sincere apologies of their own.
Between the 1950s and the 1970s, thousands of women across the UK were subjected to practices that resulted in the removal of their babies for adoption. Many mothers reported being pressured, coerced or denied meaningful choice, often because of the stigma attached to unmarried pregnancy at the time. Campaigners and survivors have spent many years seeking recognition of the trauma caused by these practices, as well as formal apologies and further measures to acknowledge the harm experienced by mothers, adopted people and wider families.
Speaking during the Prime Minister's statement on historic forced adoption, Julian drew on his experience of helping to deliver redress legislation for victims of institutional child abuse in Northern Ireland. He noted that many survivors had waited decades to be properly heard by those in positions of authority and welcomed the significance of the Government's response.
Julian also highlighted the importance of genuine accountability from all organisations involved in past injustices, arguing that victims deserve more than carefully-worded legal responses. He stressed that institutions should engage openly with survivors, acknowledge the harm that was caused and offer sincere apologies.
In addition, Julian encouraged the Prime Minister to remain personally engaged with the issue beyond today's statement.
Responding, the Prime Minister agreed that historic forced adoption represents a profound injustice and confirmed his intention to remain involved in the issue. He also welcomed Julian's previous work on behalf of victims of institutional child abuse in Northern Ireland.
The Prime Minister emphasised that meaningful apologies require more than formal statements. He said institutions must genuinely listen to survivors, understand the impact of what happened and ensure those affected feel seen and heard. He expressed his hope that today's apology would be received as sincere and heartfelt by those who endured these practices.
You can watch a video of Julian's question, and the Prime Minister's answer here.
