Britain must not hide from the fact that anti-semitism is on the rise
sir – I am Jewish, and my family and I have been proud British citizens throughout our lives, contributing to society and serving in the Armed Forces in the Second World War to defend our country against those who wanted the end of the Jewish race.
Today we see the rise of the evil of anti-semitism – now being openly preached by prospective MPS (report, February 14). We see it at the large marches in London, where symbols and chants are making Jewish people fearful of our place in British society. We see it when the police fail to act against such extremism, and remove posters of hostages taken by Hamas. We see it at the Soho Theatre, where a performer incited his audience to support the Palestinian cause and shouted “get the f--- out of here” at an Israeli Jew (report, February 14).
To say we do not have a problem with anti-semitism would amount to burying one’s head in the sand. If the majority remains silent and does not stand up with us Jews to say no to anti-semitism in any of its forms, then attacks against Jews will increase and we will once again feel there is no place in this country for us to live in peace. I dread to think that we could ever allow this to happen. Graham Marks
Chester
sir – When first learning about the Holocaust at school, many pupils find it hard to believe – indeed unsettling – that so many ordinary German people took part in such horrendous activities. We look to our families, friends and community, and are certain that “people like us” could play no role in such events, or in any process that would lead to such outcomes.
The hounding of a Jewish couple from a Soho theatre gives an insight into how attitudes can be gradually brought into line. I wonder if any of the audience felt any discomfort at the time – or afterwards, on reflection. Anthony Cutler
Great Malvern, Worcestershire sir – I think the governments of some Islamic countries are despicable, but have no issues with Muslims or their faith. I think the government of Israel is also despicable, but have no issues with Jews or their faith. I don’t think this makes me anti-semitic. Roy Sweetland
North Benfleet, Essex
sir – One wonders how many Corbynite “sleepers” lie in wait on Labour’s benches. I expect we’ll find out shortly after the general election. Gordon Brown
Grassington, North Yorkshire
sir – Regarding Sir Keir Starmer, Adrian Charles (Letters, February 14) is right to state that “lack of principle and weakness under pressure are not ideal character traits for a prime minister”.
We have the perfect recent example of such a PM in Boris Johnson – and look how that worked out. Keith Whittaker
Newcastle-under-lyme, Staffordshire