On Friday, I was grateful for the opportunity to meet with the Executive and the new Rabbi of Pinner Synagogue for a valuable discussion on local and national issues.
While I was reassured to hear the Jewish community in and around Pinner feel supported by local police, there are understandable concerns about the rise in antisemitism, both nationally and globally. Tragically, we saw the most abhorrent manifestation of this take place in Bondi on the crowds who gathered to celebrate the first day of Chanukah. This was nothing short of an appalling act of terror against the Jewish community.
Following the Manchester attack in October, I made it clear that while increased security is absolutely necessary at this time, it should not serve as a long-term solution. Meaningful steps must be taken to bring about fundamental change, fostering greater understanding, cohesion and engagement between all faith communities. Strengthening this on a local level is a priority, and we discussed how I can support work with faith leaders in the new year to achieve this.
In parallel, we must also challenge the ideologies which threaten peace and fuel hatred and violence, and I know colleagues on the shadow front benches are pressing the Government on this. In addition, as co-chair of the APPG on British Jews in Parliament, I actively support the Board of Deputies in their objectives to challenge antisemitism and promote interfaith engagement, and I will continue this work as we enter 2026.
