Reform UK Mayoral Candidate Under Fire for Comments on Jewish Community Group
Chris Parry, the Reform UK mayoral candidate for Hampshire, has ignited controversy with remarks comparing members of a Jewish neighbourhood watch organisation to "Islamists on horseback." The comments were made on Monday, shortly after an arson attack targeted ambulances operated by a Jewish charity in north London.
Background of the Incident
Parry, a retired rear admiral, retweeted a post by Catherine Blaiklock, a co-founder of the Brexit party, which questioned whether Christians in Britain could establish their own police forces. The post included an image of Shomrim vehicles. Shomrim is a volunteer group that works alongside Hatzola, a charity ambulance service providing emergency medical response to both Jewish and non-Jewish communities.
In response, Parry added, "Remember that these cosplayers have no more jurisdiction or legal authority than ordinary citizens." When challenged about his characterisation of Shomrim, he replied, "They are a community organisation, not a legal entity. It's the same with Islamists on horseback. But if it offends you, I'll remove it."
Previous Controversy and Apology
This is not the first time Parry has faced scrutiny. In January, he apologised for a "clumsily worded" post on X regarding David Lammy, the deputy prime minister, suggesting Lammy should "go home to the Caribbean" where his "loyalty lies." Despite this, Parry remains Reform UK's candidate for the Hampshire and Solent mayoral election in 2028.
Reaction from Shomrim and Community Leaders
Rabbi Herschel Gluck, president of Shomrim, condemned Parry's comments as "ignorant" and indicative of bias. He emphasised that Shomrim volunteers work closely with police and serve all community sections. "These types of comments are deeply strange, to put it mildly," Gluck stated, noting that volunteers have increased patrols following the recent arson attacks.
Police have confirmed that counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation into the arson attack on four ambulances early Monday morning. The incident has heightened tensions in the area.
Parry's Defence and Public Response
When contacted by the Guardian, Parry defended his remarks, saying, "Most people on X commenting seem to be confusing various community action groups with the real police. Keen that people understand that." However, his comments have drawn widespread criticism, with many accusing him of perpetuating antisemitic stereotypes.
The controversy highlights ongoing debates about community safety and the role of volunteer organisations in the UK. Reform UK has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
