LONDON, Thursday, May 13, 2026 (WNP): Labour MP for Bradford West, Naz Shah, described it as “the honour of my life” after becoming the first Muslim Member of Parliament to move the Loyal Address in the House of Commons during the State Opening of Parliament.
Speaking before MPs, she said the moment belonged to the people of Bradford West, crediting their trust and confidence for what she called an “opportunity of a lifetime” and a privilege owed to both her constituency and Britain.
Formally moving the Address of Thanks to His Majesty’s Gracious Speech, Shah also reflected on the King’s recent state visit to the United States, praising its diplomatic tone and symbolic gestures, including trade-related outcomes such as reduced barriers on Scotch whisky.
She highlighted Bradford’s parliamentary and social legacy, recalling that her constituency had last moved the Loyal Address in 1959, and described her appointment as a historic milestone, being the first Muslim MP to perform the role.
In an extensive address, Shah spoke about her personal journey from poverty and hardship to Parliament, stating that Britain’s democratic system made her achievement possible in a way she believed unlikely elsewhere.
She used the occasion to underscore key national and international priorities, including the cost-of-living crisis, global instability, conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine, and wider geopolitical tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz and beyond.
Emphasising defence and foreign policy, she praised the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme, expressed admiration for UK service personnel, and reiterated the importance of international trade and economic cooperation, citing her role as trade envoy for ASEAN and Indonesia.
Shah also referenced her work on parliamentary committees, stressing the value of cross-party cooperation on sensitive legislative matters.
Paying tribute to Bradford West, she highlighted its cultural diversity, industrial history, and contributions to British politics, literature, and public life, including figures such as Barbara Castle and David Hockney.
She described Bradford as a “city of wonders” and “youngest city in the UK,” noting its entrepreneurial spirit, cultural festivals, and ongoing infrastructure investment, including transport and healthcare projects.
Concluding her remarks, Shah stressed the importance of unity, tolerance, and democratic responsibility, warning against rising extremism and divisive politics. She called for protection of all places of worship and stronger social cohesion in an increasingly polarised world.
She said her journey symbolised the strength of British democracy, adding that she intended to dedicate her parliamentary service to “returning the favour” to her constituency and country.
