Former MP and community leader Eric Moonman dies aged 88

Former member of parliament, academic and community leader Eric Moonman has died, aged 88.

Tributes have been paid to the ex Labour politician, who served as senior vice president of the Board of Deputies, chair of Poale Zion (now the Jewish Labour Movement) and president of the Zionist Federation.

Born in Liverpool, Eric Moonman served as MP Billericay (1966–70) and Basildon (1974–79). After serving stints in parliament, he left Labour in the 1980s to join the SDP (Social Democratic Party) before embarking on a a career in academia. he became a Professor of Management at City University and a senior fellow at the University of Liverpool.

Paying respects to the former politician, Board of Deputies President Jonathan Arkush said: “Eric was a longstanding deputy who served the Board with distinction. He was one of a select group of deputies who were Members of Parliament. He was absolutely dedicated to our community and Israel, as well as to his parliamentary life, and was a hardworking public servant. As I came to know over time, he cared deeply over a vast range of issues in society and was an eloquent speaker. He became a good friend to me and I feel his loss.”

The Zionist Federation said they “are truly saddened by the passing of our President and long-standing supporter, Eric Moonman. He was a powerhouse of Zionism both as an MP and outside of the house where his passion and drive led the ZF from strength to strength. He will be sorely missed.”

The Jewish Labour Movement’s national chair, Jeremy Newmark added that “Eric made an important contribution to UK politics and Jewish Life. Our deepest condolences.”

The funeral will be held on Sunday in Southport.