Mike Weatherley, the Conservative MP for Hove and Portslade, has written to his colleague the Rt Hon David Cameron MP, to highlight the problem of anti-Semitism in Hove, including graffiti on a Hove synagogue.
In his letter to the Prime Minister, Mike wrote: “It is deeply saddening that a synagogue in Hove was targeted by anti-Semitic vandals earlier in August. I had assumed – wrongly – that the Jewish community in my constituency was safe and free to worship and live their lives without fear of attack. Over the past few weeks, I have heard from a number of concerned constituents who feel that the anti-Semitism that is taking place cannot be ignored any longer. I stand by these residents and look to the Government for assurances on what is being done to address this serious situation.”
Commenting, Mike said: “I have been absolutely disgusted by the anti-Semitic abuse that has taken place in my constituency. I am confident that the Prime Minister takes this matter seriously as it is unacceptable that any resident feels threatened. I have also highlighted the issue of Kosher food, as it is important that stockists do not feel intimidated into changing what and how they sell.”
Cllr Graham Cox, the prospective Conservative parliamentary candidate for Hove and Portslade, added: “I am pleased that Mike has highlighted this issue with the Prime Minister. Anti-Semitism is a terrible crime and it is important that the Jewish community in Hove not only feels safe but that they actually are safe from any form of harassment.”