UK PM Starmer leads tributes at Meghnad Desai’s memorial in House of Lords

UK PM Keir Starmer honors economist Meghnad Desai at a memorial in the House of Lords, celebrating his impactful legacy.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer led the tributes read out at a memorial ceremony in honour of Meghnad Desai at the House of Lords complex in London, describing the late economist as a “towering intellect, a compassionate scholar and a devoted public servant”.

Desai, who died last year aged 85, was commemorated on Tuesday (February 10, 2026) by many of his fellow peers in the Upper House of the British Parliament, associates, academics and former students from the London School of Economics (LSE), where he was Emeritus Professor of Economics.

“The first Labour peer of Indian origin, Lord Desai's remarkable journey was defined by a restless curiosity and an unshakable commitment to advancing human understanding," said Mr. Starmer, in a message read out by Lord Krish Raval.

“He brought to British political life not only intellectual rigour, but a heartfelt belief in the power of reasoned debate and shared purpose. He was a bridge builder between the United Kingdom and India, enriching our national life with his global outlook and empathy,” he said.

Watch | Eminent Indian-born economist, Meghnad Desai, dies at 85

Lord Raval, one of the newer Labour peers in the UK Parliament, also reflected upon the mentorship and support offered by the senior parliamentarian over the years.