FORMER Burnley MP Peter Pike’s role in the Anti-Apartheid Movement was praised in Parliament on Monday during tributes to former South African president Nelson Mandela.

Current MPs recalled their memories of Mandela during the debate, and Alistair Burt and Simon Hughes both spoke about Mr Pike’s involvement in the movement.

Mr Burt said: “I regret that I did so little for the struggle here in the United Kingdom, but my friend Peter Pike, with 26 years in the Anti-Apartheid Movement, before he even set foot in South Africa, deserves to have his voice heard today.

“I wanted Peter Pike’s words—the voice of a true, authentic anti-apartheid supporter—to be heard in this house today.”

Mr Burt read out a quote from Mr Pike about his memories of Mandela.

Mr Pike, who was MP for Burnley at the time, and Mr Burt and Mr Hughes made three visits to South Africa between 1986 and 1990.