Keir Starmer admits Labour has ‘further to go’ in tackling antisemitism
Labour leader told LBC a 'lot of Jewish communities are now working with us - something they weren't willing to do before.'
Lee Harpin is the Jewish News's political editor
Sir Keir Starmer has admitted Labour has still got “further to go” in tackling anti-Jewish racism with his party.
But speaking to LBC breakfast show presenter Nick Ferrari he said: “I don’t think anyone could put their hand on their heart and say Keir Starmer is not taking antisemitism in the Labour Party seriously. ”
Appearing on his monthly Call Keir slot, the Leader of the Opposition was asked by a listener why some antisemitism disciplinary cases resulted in people being allowed back into Labour.
He said:”We take action in all of the cases that are brought to our attention.
“The sanction, or what happens at the end, will depend on each case.
“There will be cases that are investigated where it is thought in relation to what was said that after a period of time people can be reinstated.
“I haven’t got individual cases to my fingertips – but of course that happens.”
Sir Keir then went on to defend his record of tackling the problem of antisemitism under his watch.
“Of course we have got further to go,” he admitted.
Starmer also stressed how “lot of Jewish communities are now working with us – including doing education and training within the party – something they weren’t willing to do before.”
He added: “The important thing is, are we gaining the confidence of Jewish communities? I think we are.”
The Jewish Labour Movement have embarked on online training sessions for members, which are being promoted by general secretary David Evans.
Groups representing expelled or suspended Labour activists, including Labour Against the Witchhunt and Labour In Exile, have attempted to spark claims of rebellion against the sessions.
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