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THE LONDON Jewish Forum has listed its priorities a month ahead of London’s mayoral election.
The “Manifesto for Jewish London” includes recommendations for community security and tackling extremism on London campuses, as well as a look at the future of “culturally appropriate” care for the elderly, in recognition of the fact that 13 per cent of Jewish Londoners are over 75, compared to the city average of six per cent.
The manifesto also details the challenges of providing affordable homes, particularly to deprived members of the community and the Charedi community of Stamford Hill. A section is dedicated to education requirements, planning for faith schools, and funding for Jewish cultural initiatives.
“The Mayor of London and the London boroughs have real power and influence which can be used to address concerns,” said Peter Mason, director of the LJF. “We’re really keen now to hear what the political parties have to say on these concerns and look forward to working with the winning candidate.
“Some of these issues and concerns are shared with London’s wider community,” he added. “By working with communities across the city, we will play our part in delivering a cohesive, inclusive and tolerant London that all communities can enjoy.”
The chair of the LJF, Adrian Cohen said that voters faced a “big decision on the future of our city” on May 3. “The importance of the London mayoral and Assembly elections cannot be underestimated in terms of their importance to the lives of Londoners.
“With local government taking on increased responsibilities under the localism agenda, this manifesto will provide the basis of a renewed and ongoing conversation with City Hall and town halls to ensure our elected officials and public servants understand and are responsive to our concerns.”
Mayoral candidates Boris Johnson, Ken Livingstone, Brian Paddick and Siobhan Benita have accepted offers to meet members of the Jewish community before the election in order to discuss the points raised by the LJF.
The LJF has also contacted Green Party candidate Jenny Jones in the hope of arranging a meeting.