A Labour minister faced jeers and shouts of 'shame' and 'it's your party's fault' while addressing a rally against anti-Semitism in London. Pat McFadden, the Work and Pensions Secretary, was met with hostility as thousands gathered outside Downing Street on May 10, 2026. Protesters directed accusations of 'Jew harmer' at him and demanded 'when will you act'.
Rally Highlights and Security
The demonstration, organised by the Jewish Leadership Council and the Board of Deputies of British Jews, saw attendees waving Israeli flags, Union flags, Iranian protest flags, and placards with messages such as 'British Jews deserve better', 'where is Keir', and 'Brits against antisemitism'. Strict security measures were in place, with airport-style checks at the Trafalgar Square entrance to Whitehall. Millbank remained closed, with multiple police vans and officers patrolling the area.
Political and Community Response
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch was among the speakers, alongside Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis and Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice. The rally followed an open letter coordinated by the Together Coalition, signed by religious leaders, the Football Association, the Premier League, and other prominent figures. The letter stated: 'This is not a problem for Jewish people to have to respond to. This is a problem for all of us to fix.' It highlighted recent attacks, including a stabbing in Golders Green on April 29, and urged collective action against anti-Semitism.
Growing Concerns Over Anti-Semitism
Brendan Cox, co-founder of the Together Coalition, described the rally as 'a commitment to action to fight antisemitism together'. Julie Siddiqi of the UK Muslim Network emphasised the duty to tackle anti-Semitism within all communities. Organisers expected thousands to attend, reflecting widespread concern over a 'staggering rise' in anti-Semitic incidents. The Metropolitan Police announced a community protection team of 100 extra officers, though Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley warned of a 'pandemic' of anti-Semitism and called for more resources. The UK terrorism threat level was raised to 'severe' following recent attacks.
