Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has strongly criticised the National Education Union (NEU) over a motion to be debated at its annual conference, which describes Israel's government as 'racist' and 'guilty of apartheid policies'. Keegan said the motion and amendments were 'wholly inappropriate' and 'completely ignore the horrific terrorist attacks committed by Hamas on 7 October'. She added that the proposals 'reflect the NEU's divisive ideology' and would 'cause significant hurt to members of the Jewish community'.
The motion, due to be discussed by delegates at the NEU's gathering in Bournemouth next week, calls on the union to publish educational resources to increase understanding of Palestine and Israel. It claims Israel's government is the main driver of the conflict and calls on the UK to stop enabling Israel's 'apartheid policies'. An amendment opposes attempts to clamp down on the right to protest and discuss the issue.
NEU General Secretary Daniel Kebede defended the union's stance, stating it has a long history of solidarity with the Palestinian people. He denied teachers were taking a political stance, arguing that discussing the issue allows young people to form their own opinions. Kebede noted that the majority of the public want a ceasefire and humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza.
Conservative MP Robert Halfon, who stepped down as an education minister this week, criticised the motion, saying the NEU should concentrate on teaching and education. He claimed it was 'no wonder' some Jewish members had left the union, adding that the motion would make the NEU 'an uncomfortable place for some Jewish members'.
The law in England requires schools to remain politically impartial, with teachers not promoting partisan political views and ensuring balanced treatment of political issues. The NEU conference will also debate a formal ballot on industrial action after members voted overwhelmingly in favour of strikes for a government-funded, above-inflation pay rise.
