UK leaders unite at PMQs to condemn ‘poisonous antisemitism’ after Bondi Beach attack
Starmer, Badenoch and Davey all use PMQs to reflect on deadly Bondi Beach attack
Three UK political leaders have united in condemning “poisonous antisemitism” during the first Prime Minister’s Questions since the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack.
Keir Starmer, Kemi Badenoch, and Ed Davey all began their remarks in the Commons by referencing last Sunday’s atrocity in Sydney, which killed 15 people attending a Chanukah party.
The Prime Minister described the attack as “sickening,” saying, “It has had a profound impact around the world, including on Jewish communities here in the United Kingdom.
“These incidents are not isolated—we also remember the appalling attack at Heaton Park earlier this year.
“Chillingly, they are often focused on some of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar. Last night, at a Chanukah reception in Downing Street, I reaffirmed our fight against the poison of antisemitism.”
The Conservative leader added, “What happened at Bondi Beach was an atrocity, but words of solidarity are not enough. We know the evil we face: Islamic extremism is a threat to Western civilisation.
“It abuses our democracies and subverts our institutions. It is incompatible with British values. So it is not enough just to protect Jewish communities—we must drive Islamic extremism out of this country.”
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey stated, “Antisemitism is poisonous. We must all work together to stamp it out.”
He also referenced calls from the Board of Deputies for a comprehensive government strategy to tackle antisemitism, asking, “Will the Prime Minister commit to that today and set out what concrete steps he’s taking to make sure Jewish people are safe in Britain?”
Starmer responded, “It is really important that we have actions that match our words in response to these horrific attacks. So far, we have increased funding for Jewish security to £28 million.
“I am pleased to do that, but saddened that it is necessary. No one should have to pay more or provide extra security just to attend their place of worship or go to school. I have also ordered a review of protest and hate crime laws to stop protests from breeding hatred.”
During PMQs, the last of the year, Starmer also repeatedly his call for Nigel Farage to apologise to former school children over antisemitism claims.
Farage was not in his Commons seat on Wednesday, but instead sat in the upstairs gallery.
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