Speaker’s Statement

18 Mar

General Debate

Speaker’s Statement

The General Debate session in the House of Commons opened with a tribute to John “Paddy” Hemingway, presented by Mr Speaker. The tribute was a solemn acknowledgment of the profound contributions of Mr. Hemingway, the last surviving Battle of Britain pilot, and the pivotal role he and his fellow pilots played during World War II. The Speaker highlighted Mr. Hemingway's youthful dedication to the Royal Air Force and his involvement in the critical three-month air campaign of 1940, which was instrumental in defending England and its shipping routes against the Luftwaffe.

105 years

Age of John “Paddy” Hemingway at his passing.

1940

Year of the Battle of Britain.

While the debate was largely ceremonial, it served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by many young individuals during the war, encapsulating the spirit of duty and courage. It underscored the freedoms and peace that these efforts ultimately secured for future generations, a theme likely to resonate throughout subsequent discussions on national defense and veteran affairs. Thus, the debate was a blend of remembrance and a subtle call to action to uphold and protect these achieved liberties.

21 years

Age of Mr Hemingway when he served as a fighter pilot.

Outcome

The tribute to John "Paddy" Hemingway successfully reminded the House of the historical importance of the Battle of Britain and the valor of its participants. This reflects the House's ongoing commitment to honoring and preserving historical memory, which may influence future dialogues around national defense and veteran support.

Key Contributions

Mr SpeakerSpeaker

Paid tribute to John 'Paddy' Hemingway, recounting his youthful enlistment in the RAF and pivotal role in the Battle of Britain.

Original Transcript

Mr Speaker

Before we continue proceedings, I pay tribute to John “Paddy” Hemingway, the last surviving Battle of Britain pilot, who died yesterday at the age of 105. Mr Hemingway was a teenager when he joined the RAF during the second world war.

At the age of 21 he was a fighter pilot in the Battle of Britain, a three-month air campaign in 1940 to protect the southern parts of England and British shipping from large-scale assault by the Luftwaffe.

There is no doubt that the courage and overwhelming sense of duty of RAF pilots such as Mr Hemingway helped to end the second world war and allowed us the freedoms that we enjoy today.

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