Prefer Jewish News on Google
‘Labour values the relationship between UK and Israel’ Starmer spokesperson says
Keir Starmer's spokesperson tells lobby journalists Labour wants 'strong relationship with Israel' despite 'specific issues of disagreement
A Labour government would wish to have a strong relationship with Israel, despite specific issues of disagreement, Keir Starmer’s spokesperson has confirmed.
Speaking to journalists following Liverpool Riverside MP Kim Johnson’s description of the Israeli government as “fascist” the spokesperson confirmed the party under Starmer’s leadership viewed the relations with the Jewish state as “an important one for us bilaterally.”
Johnson was spoken to be the Labour chief whip following her Commons outburst on Wednesday in which she used language which Starmer’s aide said was “unacceptable.”
“Obviously there are always issues in any bilateral relationship,” they added, when quizzed about the prominence of far-right ministers in Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government.
“You will have seen Labour spokespeople speak out on them. But the relationship between Britain and Israel is one that we value.
“I don’t think using the sort of language used in PMQs is helpful in achieving that.”
Asked about Starmer’s view on working with Netanyahu the spokesperson added Labour “always want to have a close working relationship with a number of countries across the world of which Israel is one.
“The relationship between Britain and Israel is one that we value, and it is important for the future.”
Jewish News understands that Starmer has told the Labour front bench to avoid using the word “apartheid” in relation to Israel.”
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
