MP ‘shocked’ by report showing ‘hostile culture’ for Jewish students

The National Union of Students (NUS) must make changes after an independent investigation found Jewish students faced a “hostile” culture, the Government has said.

Education minister Robert Halfon said he was “shocked and sobered” after reading the report into the union.

He added that the recommendations of the investigation should be implemented in full by the union before he re-engages with them.

A report by Rebecca Tuck KC found the NUS failed to sufficiently challenge antisemitism and, on occasion, Jews were subjected to harassment – as defined by the Equality Act 2010 – and breaches of the union’s own policies.

The NUS, which commissioned the investigation, acknowledged its findings were “shocking” and said it is committed to tackling antisemitism across “the breadth and depth” of the union.

The report found there was a “poor relationship” between the NUS and some Jewish students, stemming from views about the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

It cited numerous instances in which Jews suffered antisemitism because of assumptions that they were Zionists and about what that might mean.

Conservative MP Nickie Aiken (Cities of London and Westminster) told the Commons: “When I met with Jewish students studying in universities in my constituency I was appalled to learn of the antisemitism that they have to suffer on a daily basis often.

“It was made worse by the recent report into the NUS – the National Union of Students – handling and challenging of antisemitism.

“In the month where we mark Holocaust Memorial Day, I would be interested to hear the minister’s assessment of that NUS report.”

Mr Halfon, who is Jewish, told MPs: “I’ve been shocked and sobered by reading this report.

“The NUS was, in essence, a hostile place for Jewish students. That’s not acceptable.

“The NUS is the main body for students, it should be a place that isn’t just safe but a place that is welcoming for Jewish students as well.

“The proof of the pudding of this report will be in the eating.

“I expect to see the changes and the recommendations implemented in full and once that has occurred then I will re-engage with the National Union of Students.”