House of Commons pays tribute to Nelson Mandela
10 December 2013
The House of Commons paid tribute to Nelson Mandela on Monday 9 December
Following the announcement of the death of Nelson Mandela, the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Rt Hon John Bercow MP, announced that after Prayers at 2.30pm on Monday 9 December, tributes to Nelson Mandela would be taken.
The Prime Minister, David Cameron, spoke first, followed by Leader of the Opposition, Edward Miliband, and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg. Other MPs from all sides of the House also paid their tributes.
Watch the tributes and read the transcript
Tribute by Mr Speaker
Mr Speaker paid tribute to the former President of South Africa and placed a book of condolence in the House of Commons Library for MPs, members of staff and others to sign.
Commenting, Mr Speaker said:
"On the sad news of his death I would like to pay tribute to Nelson Mandela; an inspiration not only for his nation and for Africa, but for the world. He was Tata, father, to us all. His extraordinary commitment to democracy, peace and the fight against injustice has motivated generations to stand up for freedom.
Perhaps most striking was the way in which he combined determination to achieve justice for South Africa, with an absence of bitterness towards those who had subjected him to decades of injustice. That itself speaks to the character of the man.
In honour of his extraordinary leadership, vision and dedication there will be tributes in the House of Commons on Monday, 9 December 2013."
Book of condolence
Mr Speaker signed the book of condolence in the South African High Commission at 2.30pm on 6 December 2013.
The House of Commons book of condolence was made available in the Library from 6 December 2013.