Prime Minister convenes cross-society summit at Downing Street as government pledges record £58m to protect Jewish communities

Sir Keir Starmer is bringing together leaders from across British society at Downing Street to accelerate the fight against antisemitism.

This follows a series of terrorist attacks and arson incidents targeting Jewish communities in recent weeks.

The summit, convened by the Prime Minister, has drawn figures from business, policing, higher education, health, culture and civic society. 

Each sector is taking part in individual ministerial roundtables, with attendees asked to examine how antisemitism manifests in their field and how they can do more to combat it.

Starmer said last week’s terrorist attack in Golders Green was “utterly appalling” but not an isolated incident. 

“It is part of a pattern of rising antisemitism that has left our Jewish communities feeling frightened, angry, and asking whether this country, their home, is safe for them,” he said. 

“Only by working together can we eradicate antisemitism from every corner of society.”

Record investment in Jewish community security

The government has announced £25 million in additional funding to increase police patrols and bolster security at synagogues, schools and community centres across England, including in the West Midlands, where Jewish communities have faced heightened anxiety. 

The money brings total investment this year to £58 million, described by ministers as the largest such commitment in history.

A further £7 million will be directed at tackling antisemitism in schools, colleges and universities.

Legislation and sentencing

The government also plans to fast-track legislation targeting state-sponsored actions against Jewish communities, alongside measures to speed up sentencing for antisemitic offences.

Sir Keir will chair a separate ministerial meeting this afternoon focused on the domestic security implications of the Middle East conflict.