Spike in anti-Semitic incidents in London

Only 15 individuals were arrested for anti-Semitic offences in the capital despite incidents soaring by 255 per cent, according to new figures.

Metropolitan Police data, obtained by London-wide Assembly Member Susan Hall, showed that 252 anti-Semitic incidents were reported in May - more than three times the previous month. However, the number of arrests only increased by four to 15.

The spike in anti-Semitic incidents was sparked by pro-Palestine demonstrations after Israeli military action in Gaza during May. At the time, there was a concern the Met Police took a hands-off approach as arrests were not made immediately when anti-Semitic abuse was reported at protests. The Mayor previously reassured Londoners that "sometimes, just in general terms, when there is a march or a protest, rather than having snatch squads going in to arrest people, they often record and will arrest after the protest". However, the figures for arrests in May do not back up the Mayor's claim.

Susan Hall AM, Leader of the GLA Conservatives, commented: "These figures are disgraceful. Something went very wrong in May considering only 15 individuals were arrested for anti-Semitic offences when there were 252 incidents across London.

"Shamefully, Met Police data confirms Jewish Londoners fear that officers are just standing by when it comes to anti-Semitism on our city's streets. Far from arresting these hateful thugs after the event, as Sadiq Khan claimed, the proportion of arrests fell while offences soared.

"No mob or convoy of vehicles should be able to freely broadcast their hateful, disgusting and violent views without a strong and swift police response. Sadly, that was not the case during May's Palestine demonstrations.

"Jewish Londoners are right to feel let down by our city's response to anti-Semitism. Condemnation alone won't make London safe. The Mayor must urgently review the police's response to these incidents and create a strategy to eradicate anti-Semitism in London."