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Starmer Apologizes for Scotland’s Forced Baby Adoptions

7/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued a formal apology for the historic forced adoption of babies from unmarried mothers in Scotland.
Labour MP Tracy Gilbert, adopted in 1972, praised the apology while holding back tears.
Starmer said he admired Gilbert’s courage in repeatedly sharing her story.
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had already apologized on behalf of the Scottish Government in March 2023.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued a formal apology for the historic forced adoption of babies from unmarried mothers in Scotland.
Labour MP Tracy Gilbert, adopted in 1972, praised the apology while holding back tears.
Starmer said he admired Gilbert’s courage in repeatedly sharing her story.
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had already apologized on behalf of the Scottish Government in March 2023.