‘The shame is ours’: Keir Starmer issues formal state apology over forced adoptions

After decades of campaigning by those affected, PM says state ‘did not do enough to protect’ mothers and children

Keir Starmer has formally apologised for the British state’s role in past forced adoptions after decades of campaigning by mothers and children affected.

The prime minister said “the shame is ours” and that he was “deeply and profoundly sorry” for what had happened, as he announced extra funding to help people access their adoption records and reconnect with biological families.