Statement on the EHRC report in antisemitism in the Labour Party

Responding to the publication of the EHRC’s investigation into antisemitism in the Labour Party, HOPE not hate’s CEO Nick Lowles said:

“The findings of the EHRC investigation are both unequivocal and damning and vindicate the concerns of many in the Jewish community, both those within the Labour Party and outside.

“Those who led, ran and administered the Labour Party over this period have serious questions to answer, and the entire party from members to MPs and Peers should reflect on this period and ask themselves how this was allowed to happen for so long.

“The report documents a catalogue of failings of the utmost seriousness – unlawful conduct, harassment, discrimination, political interference and a lack of leadership.

“It should be a matter of shame and regret to the Labour Party that its leadership at the time should have allowed this to occur in a supposedly universal political party in modern Britain.

“One of the most serious accusations levelled at the leadership was found to be true – that of unlawful political interference from the Leader of the Opposition’s Office, compounded with obstruction of the EHRC investigation. This is a matter of the utmost seriousness and the party must now consider the future within the Labour movement for all involved at this level.

“We agree with the report findings that the problems within the Labour Party could have been tackled more effectively if the leadership had chosen to do so, and that a culture of toleration, verging on encouragement was at odds with a professed ‘zero tolerance’ of antisemitism.

“None of these findings are a surprise. Jewish Labour members were vocal about the discrimination and wrongdoing they were subjected to – but instead of being listened to they were ignored, smeared and abused. The pain and hurt they feel as a result of their treatment extends beyond Labour members through to the wider Jewish community across the country.

“We have no doubt that there will be many expressions of solidarity and regret in the days to come, but to truly put this behind them and find a way forward the Labour Party needs to act. That action must include every single recommendation in the EHRC’s report – but these recommendations are just the starting point from which to make the party a welcoming and inclusive party for everyone.”