Johnson: safety of Jews a ‘top priority’
PRIME MINISTER Boris Johnson has said the safety of British Jews is a “top priority” for his government.
The PM also said “we need to do more” to stamp out the scourge of antisemitism at home and abroad.
He said he welcomed the appointment of Lord Mann as the government’s adviser on combating antiJewish racism.
Mr Johnson said the former Labour MP would “hold us accountable” in the government’s efforts to protect the community from rising hatred.
Responding to a letter sent to him by the Jewish Agency Chairman Isaac Herzog, the PM wrote: “I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt support for all Jewish communities in the United Kingdom and around the world. Please be assured of my resolute support for all aspects of Jewish life.”
He said he read about rising antisemitism with a “heavy heart”, adding: “I completely agree that we need to do more to stamp this out and better protect our Jewish friends and neighbours. The safety of Jewish people is a top priority for the UK government.”
Mr Johnson went on to outline the steps his government is taking to eradicate antisemitism and ensure the safety of Jewish communities in the UK.
He said: “The government has recently doubled spending on security for places of worship to £1.6 million, and continues to invest in initiatives to drive understanding and tolerance through education and community engagement.
“I am also happy to welcome Lord
Mann as the new independent antisemitism adviser, who will hold us accountable for our efforts to tackle the scourge of antisemitism.”
He added: “I am pleased that our police continue to have a strong and positive relationship with the Community Security Trust (CST), working closely to ensure that communities across the UK can gather, celebrate and worship in peace.”
Mr Herzog said in response to the Prime Minister’s letter: “Boris Johnson’s statement must be adopted by political parties and leaders the world over. They must follow the example he has set in committing to fight antisemitism.”