PM Voices Concern Over Alleged Mistreatment of Jewish Man by Police
Rishi Sunak expressed profound dismay at the treatment of a Jewish man by the police during a pro-Palestinian demonstration in London, according to a Downing Street source.
On Friday, the Metropolitan Police issued two apologies after an officer referred to Gideon Falter, the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) boss, as “openly Jewish.”
Gideon Falter, wearing a kippah skull cap, was threatened with arrest on April 13th by the police, who stated that his presence was causing a “breach of peace.” Falter has since called for the resignation of the Met’s commissioner.
Met Police Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist invited Falter for a private meeting to personally apologize and discuss further steps the Met could take to ensure the safety of Jewish Londoners.
Downing Street confirmed that the prime minister had viewed the original footage of the incident and shared in the widespread shock over the officer’s reference to Falter’s Jewish identity.
While acknowledging the Met’s apology, Downing Street criticized the force for mishandling the situation, including an initial apology followed by a retraction and a subsequent statement.
The prime minister expects the Met commissioner to explain the incident and outline measures to enhance the safety of Jewish communities in London. Mayor Sadiq Khan will also be held accountable for his role in overseeing the Met.
Additional footage from Sky News emerged, depicting Falter explaining to the officer that he was trying to cross the road. However, the officer accused Falter of deliberately walking into the march to provoke others, which Falter vehemently denied.
In an interview with BBC News, Falter described the experience as “frightening” and expressed feeling unfairly targeted for being Jewish.
Falter criticized Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, accusing him of restricting the rights of law-abiding citizens, including the Jewish community, to alleviate unruly crowds. He called for Rowley’s resignation and emphasized the need for a commissioner who prioritizes enforcing the law and ensuring the freedom of all Londoners.
In an updated statement on Sunday, the Met reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of Jewish Londoners. It announced plans to engage with community leaders and stakeholders to address concerns.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews plans to meet with the Met commissioner to discuss the series of errors that have eroded trust within the Jewish community.
Home Secretary James Cleverly has requested an explanation from the Met commissioner and Mayor Sadiq Khan, with the mayor arranging an urgent meeting to address community relations.
While concerns over the Met’s handling of the incident persist, government officials and opposition figures agree that supporting the Jewish community and rectifying the situation is important.
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