Education watchdog Ofsted has initiated an emergency inspection at a secondary school in Bristol following allegations it was pressured into cancelling a scheduled visit from its local Jewish Member of Parliament.
School Cancels MP Visit Over 'Safety' Concerns
Inspectors arrived at Bristol Brunel Academy this afternoon after reports emerged that Labour MP for Bristol North East, Damien Egan, was prevented from speaking to pupils. The incident, which occurred in September, saw the school postpone the visit, citing 'safety' reasons because pro-Palestinian activists had planned protests outside the gates.
The activists objected to Mr Egan's role as vice-chairman of the Labour Friends of Israel parliamentary group. Following the cancellation, the local branch of the National Education Union (NEU) claimed a victory, stating its members at the school had 'raised concerns'.
Watchdog Chief 'Troubled' by Intimidation Fears
Announcing the urgent inspection, Ofsted chief Sir Martyn Oliver said he was concerned the school "may have been intimidated" into cancelling the MP's visit. "I am troubled by the message this sends to children – especially children from the Jewish community," Sir Martyn stated.
He emphasised that those working in education have a "professional and moral duty to stand against discrimination." The probe was launched after press reports highlighted the September incident, with inspectors tasked over the weekend to review evidence and speak with the school.
Political Outrage and Union Claims
The case has drawn significant political condemnation. At Prime Minister's Questions, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called the situation "very serious, very concerning," asserting that all MPs must be able to visit schools in their constituencies without fear.
Cabinet minister Steve Reed previously labelled the cancellation an "absolute outrage," promising the school would be "held to account." Conversely, the Bristol NEU posted on Facebook, celebrating the cancellation as a "victory for education workers, parents and the community" and a "win for safeguarding."
The post criticised Mr Egan for his support of Israel, stating politicians who back "Israel's genocidal assault on Gaza are not welcome in our schools." The same message was shared by the Bristol Palestine Solidarity Campaign. This development follows revelations that the NEU is itself investigating antisemitism claims within its ranks.
