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Written question asked by Lord Dodds of Duncairn (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 5 February 2018, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 7 February 2018. It was answered by Heather Wheeler (Conservative) on Monday, 12 February 2018 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Antisemitism

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what estimate he has made of the number of anti-Semitic attacks in the UK in each year since 2010; and what steps his Department is taking to tackle such attacks.

Answer

Statistics published by the Home Office and available on the website https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/hate-crime-england-and-wales-2016-to-2017 provide details on the number of hate crimes, although anti-Semitic attacks are not recorded separately. Figures published annually by the Community Security Trust show a disturbing increase in anti-Semitic incidents, with a total of 1,382 incidents reported in 2017.

That is why the UK became the first country to formally adopt the International Holocaust Memorial Alliance (IHRA) working definition of anti-Semitism. It provides a series of practical examples on how anti-Semitism manifests itself in the 21st century. In addition, Government has provided over £13.4 million (17/18) to ensure the security of Jewish faith schools, synagogues and communal buildings.

We believe the best way to tackle anti-Semitism is through effective implementation of the UK’s strong legislation against racial and religious discrimination and racially and religiously motivated crime. We also have a strong relationship with the Jewish community which has been built on the solid work of the Cross-Government working group on tackling anti-Semitism. This ensures that we are aware of any issues and concerns of the Jewish community and can respond quickly.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
126747
Session
2017-19
Subjects
Violence Antisemitism
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk