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Momentum chief Jon Lansman: ‘Labour is tackling anti-Semitism’
Leader of pro-Corbyn group says 'it is incredibly important to me as a Jew' to tackle racism in the party
Labour is combating anti-Semitism in its ranks, the leader of pro-Jeremy Corbyn organisation Momentum has said.
Jon Lansman, who said he has experience of anti-Semitic abuse, said Labour reflected society and was moving against discrimination.
The Momentum chairman told BBC1’s The Andrew Marr Show: “Anti-Semitism is a problem throughout society, it would be extremely surprising if it wasn’t also present in the Labour Party, alongside other forms of discrimination.
“Which is why I’m so pleased that the national executive of the Labour Party put (out) a statement which made very clear our absolute opposition to all forms of discrimination, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and so on.
“It is incredibly important to me as a Jew. I am very clearly against any form of anti-Semitism.”
The issue featured heavily at last week’s Labour conference with Unite union leader Len McLuskey drawing criticism when he played down the level of anti-Semitism in the party.
Mr Lansman said: “I think it is the case that you have to be a Jew to actually experience anti-Semitism.
“I have actually experienced anti-Semitism. I know that there are problems with anti-Semitism and it has to be dealt with.”
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