According to a recent survey conducted by The Times, only 3% of voters believe that Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has successfully tackled anti-Semitism within the party. This revelation comes as incidents of anti-Jewish racism linked to Labour have surged in 2023, with a 28% increase compared to the previous year.
Labour Party Candidate Recorded Making Anti-Semitic Comments
Azhar Ali, a Labour candidate from Rochdale, was caught on record making anti-Semitic remarks. The Community Security Trust, a Jewish charity, reported a total of 45 cases tied to the Labour Party, further highlighting the ongoing issue.
Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended Starmer, asserting that he had not let the Jewish community down in the wake of the Rochdale by-election controversy. Reeves claimed that Starmer acted swiftly by withdrawing support for Azhar Ali and suspending aspiring MP Graham Jones following their comments regarding Israel and Hamas.
Labour Accused of Attempting to Divert Attention
The Campaign Against Antisemitism accused the Labour Party of trying to shift attention away from Azhar Ali's comments. Ali had suggested that Israel intentionally allowed the October 7 attacks. Reeves reiterated Labour's commitment to fighting anti-Semitism, stating that they take action promptly when evidence is presented.
However, questions still remain regarding who else was present at the meeting, what else was said, and who else was aware of the situation. It is crucial for Labour to draw a clear line and declare their zero tolerance towards extremist views.
Conservatives Call Out Starmer's Leadership
Craig Tracey MP, Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Party, criticized Sir Keir Starmer for failing to address the issue of anti-Semitism within his party. Tracey emphasized that despite Starmer's promises to eradicate this culture, anti-Semitic hate and bigotry continue to prevail. Tracey called on Starmer to take responsibility and take decisive action.
Upcoming Challenges for Sir Keir Starmer
Next week, Sir Keir Starmer is expected to face another challenge as the Scottish National Party (SNP) plans to force a vote calling for an immediate ceasefire in Israel and Gaza. A similar vote last year resulted in ten Labour frontbench nominations.
