(CTN News) – In response to the alarming surge in antisemitic incidents over recent months, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has revealed a comprehensive £72 million security package for Jewish schools, synagogues, and community centers.
This initiative aims to address the “utterly sickening” rise in antisemitism and ensure the safety of Jewish community sites.
The funding, announced by Prime Minister Sunak, will cover the installation of security guards, CCTV systems, and alarm systems at various Jewish institutions.
The Home Office has specified that £54 million of the total package constitutes new funding for the Community Security Trust (CST).
This funding will be allocated to providing security measures until 2028, in addition to the previously allocated £18 million for the period of 2024-2025.
Speaking at the annual dinner of the CST on Wednesday, Sunak expressed deep concern about the escalating racist attacks, emphasizing that such acts threaten the very fabric of the nation.
Jewish Community: Historic £72 Million Security Package
He condemned the October 7 Hamas attack as the “most abhorrent act of terrorism against Israel” and noted the subsequent record levels of antisemitism in the country.
Describing antisemitism as pure hatred and an assault on the Jewish people, Sunak pledged to combat it vigorously.
As part of a long-term effort, he declared his commitment to strengthening security, defending liberal democratic values, and addressing the root causes of this hatred.
Sunak highlighted the crucial role played by the CST, a British charity providing security and advice to the Jewish community in the UK. In a significant move, he announced a change in the way the CST is funded, ensuring the organization’s ability to plan for the long term.
Sunak emphasized that this financial commitment represents the largest ever made by any government in supporting the CST’s vital mission.
