Labour finally backs deal on anti-Semitism
But new storm over ‘loophole’
Adoption is essential to rebuilding trust and as an act of solidarity JEREMY CORBYN SPOKE AT LABOUR NECMEETING
LABOUR finally adopted internationally agreed definitions of antiSemitism last night – but with a clarification dubbed a “get out of jail card” for racists.
The ruling national executive committee’s decision to include the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definitions in the party’s code of conduct comes after summer-long crisis.
Leader Jeremy Corbyn wanted to add a statement which would have read: “It should not be considered anti-Semitic to describe Israel, its policies or the circumstances around its foundation as racist.”
But the NEC would only agree a watered-down version, which supporters said would protect freedom of speech. It said in a statement: “We recommend that we adopt the IHRA in full.
“This does not in any way undermine the freedom of expression on Israel or the rights of Palestinians.”
Mr Corbyn said that the adoption was essential to “rebuilding trust and as an act of solidarity with Jewish communities”.
But Labour Against Anti-Semitism said: “The attachment of a ‘clarification’ risks giving racists in the party a get out of jail card.”
And MP Dame Margaret Hodge, who has branded Mr Corbyn an anti-Semite, described it as an “unnecessary qualification”.
Board of Deputies of British Jews President Marie van der Zyl said: “It is long overdue and regrettable Labour wasted a whole summer trying to dictate to Jews what constitutes offence against us.”
Meanwhile, Met Police Commissioner Cressida Dick revealed Scotland Yard was reviewing a leaked file detailing 45 examples of anti-Semitism in Labour. One is believed to be a social media post reading: “We shall rid the Jews who are a cancer on us all.”