Mp Steve Mccabe Says Opposition Party Has Returned To Traditional Israel Backing After Antisemitism Drove Jews Away In Corbyn Era

Labour's antisemitism crisis: Starmer under pressure to tackle Muslim voters' concerns

MP Steve McCabe says opposition party has returned to traditional Israel-backing after antisemitism drove Jews away in Corbyn era

Labour Leader Keir Starmers statement to the House of Commons 23 October 2023

"I would like to thank the hon. Member for his question. I share his concerns about the rise of antisemitism in our society. Antisemitism is a poison that has no place in our communities. It is an attack on our shared values of tolerance and respect. We must all work together to confront and defeat it. "The Labour Party has a proud history of standing up against racism and discrimination. We are committed to creating a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We will continue to work with our partners to combat antisemitism and all forms of hatred."

The Labour Party faced a crisis in November when nearly a third of its MPs defied Stamer by voting for an amendment brought by the SNP. The amendment called for the UK government to recognise the state of Palestine. Starmer has said that he will not support the amendment, arguing that it would be "prejudicial" to the peace process.

Labour Leader Keir Starmers statement to the House of Commons 23 October 2023

"I would like to thank the hon. Member for his question. I share his concerns about the rise of antisemitism in our society. Antisemitism is a poison that has no place in our communities. It is an attack on our shared values of tolerance and respect. We must all work together to confront and defeat it.

"The Labour Party has a proud history of standing up against racism and discrimination. We are committed to creating a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We will continue to work with our partners to combat antisemitism and all forms of hatred."

For Britain's opposition Labour Party it is shaping up to be a perfect storm. Muslim voters, normally a loyal voting bloc for the party, are increasingly concerned about the party's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. At the same time, the party is under pressure from its pro-Israel wing to take a tougher line against antisemitism.

Starmer, whose Labour party looks set to win the next UK general election, has come under pressure to demand an end to the ongoing conflict. He has also been urged to take a more critical stance towards the Israeli government.