During the first of three communal functions in the space of eight days, David Cameron last week promised that he would "never turn his back on Israel" as prime minister and would "stand firm against anti-Semitism in all its forms and wherever it occurs".

"I passionately believe in the right of Israel to exist, to defend itself and to live in peace and security," Cameron told the 400 guests. "Not just because of the tragedies of history. Not only because of the realities of today. Not simply because of my party's unstinting support for Israel through the decades. But also because it's something I feel very deep inside of me.

"The belief I have in Israel is indestructible - and you need to know that if I become Prime Minister, Israel has a friend who will never turn his back on Israel."

He wholeheartedly rejected any suggestion of an equivalence between Israel and Hamas and insisted the group would be judged on actions rather than words. And while saying the Palestinians had an obligation to prove they are a reliable negotiating partner and renounce violence, Cameron also had a clear message about what he'd like to see from the Israeli side. "I need to add something else as a true friend," he said. "The expansion of settlements fuels extremism and undercuts Palestinian leaders who genuinely yearn for peace. It is in all our interests to help improve life for ordinary Palestinians."

He also had a firm message on the Iranian issue, insisting that European countries must agree "tough sanctions" if Tehran refuses to negotiate.

Turning his attention to the domestic scene, the MP for Witney told the audience: "These are incredibly worrying times for the Jewish community in Britain. Anti-Semitic incidents have increased by ten percent. The BNP are winning seats in both European and in local elections. The most disgusting literature can be bought in our bookshops and found in our university campuses. And is our government doing enough? My answer is no. Hizb-ut-Tahrir is still not banned.

"And then there are the decisions that in my view completely fly in the face of common sense. They blacklist an American shock jock. But they let in anti-Semites like Yusuf al-Qaradawi and Ibrahim Moussawi with open arms. These people should not be allowed to spread hate in our country."

Meanwhile, during an address to Jewish Care's annual dinner on Monday, he said he had always been a great admirer of the Jewish people "and of your extraordinary achievements".

He also revealed he had some Jewish ancestry of his own, stating: "My great-grandfather was a Levita who came to Britain in the 19th century."

Praising the charity, he added: "You have created and funded something that goes way beyond what would be expected of a community of around a quarter of a million people." The dinner, attended by 1,150 guests, raised a record �3.6m.

The Tory leader will complete his communal hattrick today when he visits Ravenswood to open the Tager Centre, Norwood's new residential service for those suffering from autism.


Justin Cohen
25th June 2009

Source: Totally Jewish