The Government needs to do more to reassure British Jews they are safe
The Government must do everything in its power to combat the rising tide of anti-Semitism. In fact society as whole has a duty to reassure British Jews that they do not have to fear for their safety.
The knife attack in Golders Green that resulted in two Jewish men being stabbed earlier this week has left Jewish communities shaken. And their calls for authorities to do more must be heeded.
Police have said the man suspected of carrying out the knife attack in North London was previously referred to the Government’s counter-extremism programme. While the investigation is ongoing, the Government must review the events leading up to this heinous crime.
The Prime Minister was heckled by protesters as he visited the area to meet emergency services who responded to the attack. The message was crystal clear that more needs to be done to tackle the rise in anti-Semitism. Chief rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis has called for “meaningful action” to tackle the “root causes” of antisemitism.
The £25m to boost police patrols and protections around synagogues, schools and community centres, taking the total commitment this year to £58m, is much needed.
West Yorkshire Police has said it would increase patrols to provide additional reassurance.
But it is not just the authorities that need to step up. Jewish communities across the region and indeed country need to know that every right-thinking person stands with them during these dark times.
Regardless of events in other parts of the world, hatred should not be allowed to be fomented on Britain’s streets, against any group of people.