Board of Deputies President Jonathan Arkush and Chief Executive Gillian Merron of the Board of Deputies of British Jews have held a meeting with Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Tim Farron MP, to express the ongoing concerns of the community about deeply offensive comments repeatedly made by Baroness Jenny Tonge and Councillor David Ward.
Most recently, in response to the Home Affairs Select Committee report into antisemitism, Baroness Tonge wrote that antisemitism was ‘reflecting the disgust of the general public of the way the government of Israel treats Palestinians …’ while David Ward wrote that ‘the Zionists are winning despite the appalling racism of the state of Israel and its supporters – don’t give up – good will triumph bad’
The Lib Dem Leader confirmed that the party had initiated reviews of disciplinary processes and also barriers to diversity, which would address the culture which the party wished to embrace as well as the mechanics of dealing with breaches of discipline by members.
Jonathan Arkush said “Having left Mr Farron in no doubt about the strength of feeling within the community, I welcome his response and the reviews that are underway. The test, as always, will be the actions that are taken.”
Discussions were also held about education and faith schools.
The party has since suspended Baroness Tonge, who has resigned from the party.