Forced adoption survivors to get full apology from UK government, says Phillipson

Education secretary describes historical practice in England as a ‘shameful period’ in country’s history

Downing Street is to make a full apology on behalf of the state to those affected by historic forced adoption in England , the education secretary has confirmed.

Bridget Phillipson, giving evidence to MPs on the education select committee on Wednesday, described it as a “shameful period” in the country’s history.

She said the prime minister would have more to say, but told MPs that all those whose lives had been affected by forced adoption would get the apology they “so profoundly deserve”.

Phillipson’s remarks followed an earlier report from the committee that said a formal and public apology was essential to correct the public record and reduce the burdens felt by many mothers and adoptees.

It urged ministers to provide an initial commitment to an apology and begin working with survivor groups as quickly as possible.

In her opening remarks to MPs, Phillipson said: “I know that you and the committee will want to hear that this government will very soon be making a full apology on behalf of the state to all of those affected by historic forced adoption in England.

“The prime minister will have more to say on this shameful period in our history, reflecting the gravity of what has happened. But here and now, let me say to all of those affected, you will get the apology that you so profoundly deserve.”