Southampton Test MP Satvir Kaur has given her maiden speech in parliament.

The former leader of Southampton City Council was elected to her new role as Labour MP in July’s general election, taking over from Alan Whitehead who stood down after more than 25 years in the role.

Speaking in the House of Commons for the first time, Ms Kaur said: “I want to start by congratulating hon. Friends and other hon. Members on some fantastic maiden speeches today, but also on the many I have heard since the election in July. They have made me proud to be British.

“However, notwithstanding those incredible speeches and hearing about the amazing and beautiful places across the UK, I would still argue that Southampton, the place where I was born and bred, where I have always lived and which I have the honour to represent as the Member of Parliament for Southampton Test, is the best city on earth.”

Praising the city where she served as council leader from May 2022 to December 2023, Ms Kaur told MPs that Southampton is known globally for where the world meets Britain, for the pilgrims who set sail from Southampton on the Mayflower over 400 years ago in search of a new life in America, and for inventing the fishfinger sandwich – as well as its hundreds of years of history.

READ MORE: Winter fuel payment vote a 'difficult decision' says Southampton MP

“We are a city of political firsts,” she added.

“Many will know that our country’s first Prime Minister of colour is from Southampton. I was the first female Sikh council leader in the UK.

“The truth is that I owe so much to my incredible city and the remarkable people of Southampton who gave me the opportunity to be where I am today. Southampton has made me who I am.

“As someone who grew up in one of Southampton’s most deprived communities, I saw at first hand the importance of community and service to others. Southampton has a unique ability to come together when it is needed most.”

The Southampton Test MP also paid tribute to her predecessor Alan Whitehead, before concluding: “I am incredibly proud of Southampton and everything it represents.

“I will spend every day, in here and beyond, championing our great city, fighting for it, and helping us to reach our enormous potential.”