Southall's MP has met with the governor of an American State to discuss international relations.

Virendra Sharma met privately with Governor Bobby Jindal of Louisiana to discuss the Indian dispersion in both America and United Kingdom. The meeting came during Mr Jindal’s economic and foreign policy tour of Europe where he came to Westminster to talk to British politicians.

In a meeting Labour MP, Mr Sharma, and Mr Jindal discussed their backgrounds, and how they were the first of their families to become involved in politics.

Mr Sharma said: "Our relationship with America is arguably our most important, and cultural communication across the Atlantic between Indians both sides can only improve relations. The Indian diaspora in America is small but increasingly powerful, and not without their political views. The new administration in Delhi is a chance to reinvigorate ties not just with India but for Indian communities across the Atlantic."

He said both reiterated the position that America and the UK are the closest of allies, and would speak with one voice.

Mr Sharma added: "The refusal by the Indian government to grant visas to many Sikhs who wish to visit was also discussed and noted."