Antisemitic Attacks

Andrew Snowden Excerpts

Monday 20th April 2026 Commons Chamber

[Dan Jarvis]

At moments like this, it can be tempting to focus on those who seek to divide our communities, but it is also important to reflect, as I have done, on the extraordinary good work in communities right around our country. On the point that my hon. Friend made at the end of his remarks, the National Security Act 2023 provides us with the legislative framework we need to take action against those who would seek to undermine our national security, and we will do everything we can to keep the public safe.

[Mr Andrew Snowden (Fylde) (Con)]

I am proud to represent Lancashire’s only synagogue, St Annes in my constituency. Many of the members of the congregation tell me about the difficulties faced, and the fear and intimidation felt, by their friends and family around the country, as UK Jews. They are not interested in new strategies and plans and initiatives; they are interested in seeing handcuffs slapped on those who preach antisemitic hatred on our streets—not after the attacks have taken place, but pre-emptively—and who spill that bile on hate marches and in mosques across the country, and in extremist content. What action will the Government take to increase the number of arrests of those preaching hate, before it is too late?

[Dan Jarvis]

I have described the actions that we will take, but it is also important to recognise the work that the police do, often in difficult and challenging circumstances. There has been an impressive response from the Met over the past few days; we need to ensure that it has the support to continue that. If the hon. Member has any particular issues with regard to his local synagogue or local community, I would be happy to meet him to discuss them.