The recent reported antisemitic incidents that have taken place in our borough and elsewhere in the capital are unacceptable. This week, hateful leaflets were spread around the streets of Hendon and Jewish schoolchildren have been targeted in two separate incidents. These cases are the latest in a surge of vile abuse and shocking violence experienced by Jewish communities. As the Leader of Barnet Council, I condemn these acts and am angered by the fact that 40% of all antisemitic crimes recorded in Greater London in the first half of this year occurred in our borough.

Barnet is home to Britain’s largest Jewish communities so sadly that makes us an obvious target for antisemites. We are also a borough with a strong partnership with local police to combat this.

Tackling antisemitism in Barnet in all its forms requires us, the council, to continue working closely with the Community Security Trust, Shomrim and our police partners. We are in constant contact with the police and will work together to stamp out hate crime and to maintain an open dialogue to promote greater community cohesion.

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