My Statement on the Lisbon Elevador Gloria Funicular Tragedy

As Chair of the APPG on Portugal, I wrote to the Ambassador of Portugal in the UK HE Nuno Brito expressing my condolences on the tragic events and hand delivered it to the Embassy. 

I send my deepest condolences to the people of Portugal on this day of mourning following the tragic events at Bairro Alto on Wednesday 3 September 2025. Having just returned from Lisboa and walked rather than take the Elevador funicular Gloria, I know the area which is always full of people enjoying the culture and the vibrant locality. It is sad to hear that at least 15 people have died and many injured including foreign nationals while enjoying your beautiful city.

My prayers are with those who have died and injured, those who have lost loved ones and your country Portugal at this very difficult time.   

The UK is the longest allies of Portugal, and my colleagues in the APPG and I share your grief.

May the departed rest in peace. 

The death toll has now risen to 16 as at 2pm on 4 September 2025.

(the photo is of the altar of St Anthony in Lisboa)