Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations selects non-Jewish chair to head Halpern inquiry

The former judge due to chair the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations’ inquiry into allegations against Golders Green rabbi, Chaim Halpern, has been replaced by a non-Jewish chair – sparking concerns that strictly-Orthodox women may be reluctant to confide in someone outside the community.

The former Recorder of Redbridge originally due to chair the inquiry, Judge Martyn Zeidman, has withdrawn from the role. He told Jewish News: “With great regret, I am now unable to conduct this important inquiry. It is for personal reasons, in that my wife has suddenly been taken seriously ill”.

But for his wife’s sudden health decline, the judge would have been expected to begin his inquiry imminently, into the allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour by Rabbi Halpern.

He had made it clear that he would not invite witnesses until any police inquiry had concluded. Last week police announced its inquiry into allegations against Rabbi Halpern had been closed, because it had been unable to make contact with, or identify, the latest accuser.

Jewish News understands Zeidman has been replaced with an as-yet unnamed non-Jewish chair, prompting concerns that alleged victims may be uncomfortable confiding in someone outside their community.

Rabbi Halpern insists he is innocent of all allegations and claims it is not his voice on the recordings.