In a video message to the Jewish community today, Prime Minister Theresa May welcomed the contribution of the 10-point Jewish manifesto from the Board of Deputies of British Jews, emphasising that the Conservative Party “will always take a zero-tolerance approach” to antisemitism and reaffirming the Government’s strong support of Israel.
She said: “I know there are real concerns in the Jewish community today about the issue of antsemitism in our country, so I will give you a categorical assurance: the Conservative Party will always take a zero-tolerance approach to such hatred”.
Prime Minister May added: “Condemnation alone isn’t enough, we need to take action too. That’s why my Government formally adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism, making Britain one of the first countries to do so”.
The Prime Minister reiterated her staunch support of Israel: “In this centenary year of the Balfour Declaration, we remember Britain’s vital role in creating a homeland for the Jewish people, and we celebrate the achievements of a remarkable country. We continue to stand up for Israel, we refuse to join in unfair criticisms internationally, and we firmly oppose boycotts and sanctions”.
Regarding the Middle East peace process, she said: “We also reiterate our firm commitment to two-state solution based on direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians as the best way to bring about stability and peace in the region”.
Prime Minister May underlined: “Sadly the Conservative Party’s resolute commitment to the Jewish community and our firm stand against antisemitism is not shared by all of the other political parties today. Every vote for any other party at this election is a vote to make Jeremy Corbyn Prime Minister, so the choice facing voters from the Jewish community is a serious one”.
She concluded: “I pledge to stand firm on the issues which matter to the Jewish community and to be your champion as Prime Minister”.
Click here to watch Prime Minister May’s video message.
