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Antisemitism: Bristol University
06 January 2022
Lead MP
Christian Wakeford
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Crime & Law EnforcementEducationCommunity Security
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Christian Wakeford raised concerns about antisemitism: bristol university in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The MP highlighted the troubling issue of antisemitism targeting Jewish students at university campuses, particularly focusing on the case of Bristol University and its treatment of complaints against Professor David Miller. He detailed instances where Jewish students felt unsafe, intimidated, or discriminated against due to the professor's teaching and comments that included dangerous antisemitic conspiracy theories and false allegations about Jewish organisations. The MP emphasised the lack of proper investigation and disciplinary action taken by Bristol University in response to these issues, highlighting how this has affected student well-being and trust.
Andrew Percy
Con
Brigg and Goole
Agrees with the lead MP that the issue of antisemitism at Bristol University is alarming.
Karl McCartney
Independent Group for Change Conservative
Lincoln
Stresses the importance of not allowing speech to include incitement to racial hatred, despite valuing freedom of speech.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the profound issue of antisemitism at Bristol University and across higher education in general. He emphasised that there is no place for antisemitism in society or educational institutions, highlighting actions such as adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism by more than 200 providers, including most universities. The Government has provided £4.7 million to support projects targeting harassment and hate crime, including religion-based incidents. The Minister also discussed the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill’s role in protecting free speech while rejecting any encouragement of antisemitism or holocaust denial. He committed to holding a summit focused on tackling antisemitism in universities and meeting with stakeholders to discuss further actions needed for Jewish students' safety.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.