The UK government is preparing a full state apology to people affected by historical forced adoption in England, the education secretary says. Bridget Phillipson told MPs at the education select committee that the practice represents a “shameful period” in the country’s history. Both outlets report that the apology is intended to acknowledge the actions taken by the state during the period of forced adoptions and to provide recognition to victims. The reports indicate that the apology will be made on behalf of the government, rather than as an individual statement by any particular institution. The confirmation comes during parliamentary evidence, where Phillipson addressed the historical nature of the policy and its impact on affected individuals. The coverage does not specify a date for when the apology will be delivered or detail the form it will take, but it establishes that an apology is planned and that it reflects formal acknowledgement of past wrongdoing by the state in England.