London, United Kingdom

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer's office, on Friday (Nov 15) apologised after facing criticism for serving meat and alcohol at its annual Diwali celebration at 10 Downing Street last month. 

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The apology came after members of the British Indian community raised concerns over the issue. 

A spokesperson on Friday acknowledged the "mistake" of serving meat and alcohol at the event. He further assured that measures would be taken to prevent such oversights in the future. 

“The Prime Minister was pleased to welcome a range of communities celebrating Diwali to a reception in Downing Street,” the spokesperson said. 

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“He paid tribute to the huge contribution the British Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities make to our country and how the government is driven by the shared values of hard work, ambition and aspiration.

“A mistake was made in the organisation of the event. We understand the strength of feeling on this issue and so would apologise to the community and assure them it will not happen again.”

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The serving of alcoholic drinks and meat prompted anger among British Hindus. 

The concerned guests at the event raised objections to the catering staff. Further, the staff responded that these items were specifically requested. 

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Conservative Party MP Shivani Raja, representing Leicester East, said, "I feel this speaks poorly against the organisation of this year’s event – with a disappointing lack of knowledge of the customs and traditions that many British citizens hold dear." 

“As a practising Hindu, representing thousands of Hindus within my own constituency of Leicester East, I have been deeply saddened to hear that this year’s festivities were overshadowed in the greatest office of state by negativity as a result of this oversight.”

Raja offered to guide the Labour Party government for future Hindu celebrations to ensure appropriate observance.

(With inputs from agencies)