British High Commissioner to India, Sir James Bevan and Priti Patel MP, visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden and the Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Hounslow.
Sir James and Ms Patel were accompanied on their visit to the Hounslow Gurdwara by Brentford and Isleworth MP Mary Macleod.
During both visits, Sir James and Ms Patel met with leading members of the Hindu and Sikh communities to applaud the contributions that the Indian Diaspora makes to the United Kingdom across business, education and the charitable sector in both the UK and India.
Priti Patel MP said: “The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and the Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara are wonderful examples of how the British Indian community in the UK share their values, heritage and culture with the wider community.
“The Hindu and Sikh communities in London are now so well established. They enrich our society, give generously to charity and make such tremendous contributions to the UK economy.
“BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is not only one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, it is a dynamic hub for the Hindu community in London. Their dedication and commitment to learning, worship and charity is remarkable and a testament to the way the Hindu community continues to culturally enrich the UK”.
“I was delighted to visit the Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara and to meet with community leaders and representatives. Britain’s Sikh community has made an enormous contribution to our country for decades, from Sikhs who served loyally for Britain in two world wars to the values we share today of honesty, hard work, charity and community that underpins the Sikh faith.
“I look forward to visiting again and to sharing many more future enjoyable occasions with the community.
“The visit of the High Commissioner to these very special communities in London demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening ties between the UK, India and the Indian Diaspora in this country.”