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Battle of Cable Street: 90th anniversary
14 September 2026
Lead MP
Apsana Begum
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EconomyCommunity SecurityCulture, Media & SportParliamentary ProcedureReligion & Faith
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Apsana Begum raised concerns about battle of cable street: 90th anniversary 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
It is an honour to lead this Adjournment debate on the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Cable Street, a pivotal moment in anti-fascist history. Antisemitism and hate crimes are on the rise, and we must look to our history to understand how we overcame similar challenges. The battle saw thousands of people, including trade unionists and grassroots activists, unite to prevent the British Union of Fascists from marching through east London in 1936. The Jewish People’s Council and local mayors gathered signatures and organised resistance, but the Home Secretary refused to ban the march. Tens of thousands of protesters gathered, outnumbering the fascists and their police protection, leading to a confrontation that forced the fascists to retreat. This victory was a testament to the power of community solidarity and resistance against division and hate. The debate also acknowledges the bravery of individuals like Charlie Goodman, arrested at Cable Street and later fighting in Spain, and the ongoing efforts of communities to confront racism and fascism, including the response to the racially motivated murder of Altab Ali in 1978 and recent challenges from groups like the English Defence League and UKIP. The MP also raised concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage, such as the Cable Street mural, and the importance of inter-faith activities in building community cohesion. She asked the Government to honour the legacy of Cable Street and to take steps to address the rising antisemitism, racism, and division of today.
Rushanara Ali
Lab
Bethnal Green and Stepney
The hon. Member congratulates her colleague on securing the debate and highlights the importance of the battle of Cable Street in fostering a safe and inclusive community. She acknowledges the work of anti-racism advocates like Max Levitas and Beatty Orwell, and calls for a continued effort to build strong communities and inter-faith relations to counter modern-day intolerance and hatred.
Government Response
EconomyCommunity SecurityCulture, Media & SportParliamentary ProcedureReligion & Faith
Government Response
The Minister congratulates the hon. Member for Poplar and Limehouse on securing the debate and acknowledges the significance of the battle of Cable Street. She highlights the importance of solidarity across communities in combating hate and intolerance, as demonstrated in 1936. She notes the continued presence of antisemitism and the Government's commitment to tackling it through various initiatives, including £32.4 million for Jewish community protective security, £251.1 million policing package, and up to £7 million to tackle antisemitism in schools. The Minister also mentions the importance of community cohesion and inter-faith initiatives, such as the Near Neighbours programme and the £800 million investment in community-led initiatives through the 'Protecting What Matters' action plan. She reiterates the Government's stance against antisemitism and far-right extremism, stating that they will continue to stand against hate and division, echoing the battle cry of 'No pasarán! They shall not pass!'
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