KINGSTON, Jamaica — United Kingdom Home Secretary, Sajid Javid has announced the UK Government’s plan to commemorate an annual Windrush Day to be observed on 22nd June each year.

The Ministry Foreign Affairs, in a release today, said the day will be supported by a grant of up to £500,000 for communities wanting to host commemorative and educational events.

The ministry also said the Home Secretary pledged the UK’s “continued commitment” to the Jamaican Government to resolve the Windrush crisis.

Javid, who was speaking at a meeting held at the UK Home Office today, advised that based on the commitment, the work of the Commonwealth Taskforce will be ongoing and the waiver of fees will continue indefinitely for the Windrush Generation, pre-1973.

“Legislation has also been drafted to change the law to introduce the Windrush Settlement Scheme which will streamline the process utilising a single form.”

Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pearnel Charles Jr, said that while he was appeased by the overall approach being taken by the UK Government it was important to have clarity regarding the procedural steps in resolving this matter.

He assured that Jamaica would continue to work with the UK authorities in raising further awareness of the situation and in advancing the settlement process.

Charles Jr is currently in the United Kingdom on a weeklong engagement with officials, private sector and voluntary organisations on matters of importance to the Diaspora.