Tessa Jowell Hails Unveiling of Nelson Mandela's Statue  

29 August 2007 

Tessa Jowell has welcomed the unveiling of a statue of Nelson Mandela in Parliament Square.

She said: "It is entirely appropriate that such a man - the greatest political leader of our generation - is honoured in this way.

"Nelson Mandela embodies tolerance, mutual respect and courage. His fight against oppression serves as an inspiration for us now as it will for generations to come.

With typical dignity and humility Mr Mandela accepted the honour by saying:

"Though this statue is of one man, it should in actual fact symbolise all of those who have resisted oppression, especially in my country."

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