Local MP uses Commons Debate to demand Government support for memorials for stillborn babies buried in unmarked mass graves

Using her first time back in the House of Commons chamber after her treatment for an autoimmune condition, Sarah Gibson MP has continued her campaign call on the Government to support families affected by historic cases of baby loss so that they can finally have their children and their grief properly acknowledged.

Speaking in the House of Commons during a debate on baby loss, Sarah shared the story of a Calne constituent, John Murphy, whose family has lived for decades with the pain of losing a child and never knowing exactly where she was buried.

Sarah Gibson asked the Government to act now, to ensure families like John Murphy’s are supported and memorials are placed in cemeteries where these historic burials occurred.

Sarah’s call follows the Secretary of State for Health’s commitment before Parliament’s October Recess to meet with grieving families affected by these historic burials. He is yet to confirm this in writing to her.

Speaking after the debate, Ms Gibson said:

“These families have carried their grief without support for many years. It is time their pain was recognised. Families with stillborn children deserve a place to remember them and mourn.

“The campaign has drawn national attention after revelations that tens of thousands of stillborn babies were buried in unmarked or communal graves across the UK up until the late 1980s. Many families only discovered this in recent years, prompting calls for access to burial records and for memorials to be created at burial sites.

“I will continue to plead support from all political parties and push for the Government to erect memorials without delay.”