The Jewish Chronicle
Sadiq Khan vows to ensure Labour 'repairs relationship' with British Jews
London Mayor gets standing ovation for speech decrying 'deeply disappointing' breakdown in trust
November 5, 2018 23:17
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London Mayor gets standing ovation for speech decrying 'deeply disappointing' breakdown in trust
November 5, 2018 23:17By
Sadiq Khan received a standing ovation for his speech to the Board of Deputies' annual dinner when he vowed to ensure Labour "repairs its relationship with the Jewish community".
Addressing a cross section of rabbis and fellow Labour politicians, the London Mayor told Monday night's event that the breakdown in trust between British Jews and his party was "deeply disappointing".
He criticised Labour for initially refusing to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Association's (IHRA) definition of antisemitism in full, prompting a drawn out row over the summer.
"The Labour Party should have adopted the IHRA definition from the start. I will use my influence to ensure that Labour repairs its relationship with the Jewish community," he said.
He called out the "truly shocking" abuse faced by Jewish Labour politicians - some of whom were in the audience.
Also in the audience from Labour was Emily Thornberry, shadow foreign secretary and a senior ally of Mr Corbyn.
"We often hear people say 'we must learn from our history'. Well, the moment we show we've learned these lessons is now," he said.
"I believe we must encourage everyone of all faiths and backgrounds to play their part. By the way, this include politicians in this country and around the world refraining from playing on people's worst instincts and using the language of division to advance their political cause."
Earlier, Board President Marie van der Zyl said: I have a message for Jeremy Corbyn. Kick out the racists from your party and disown the friendships with Holocaust deniers. Enough is enough."