Antisemitism in Schools and Colleges

Debate between Janet Daby and Lucy Powell

Wednesday 21st October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Janet Daby (Lewisham East) (Lab)]

I thank the Secretary of State for her statement and for accepting all the review’s recommendations. Antisemitism and all forms of prejudice and racism undermine public order and safety, and they need to be challenged wherever they appear. I am currently working with a community leader, Joe Burchell from our local synagogue in my constituency, to campaign to reintroduce faith officers to local police forces. Does the Secretary of State agree that faith officers could help to counter hate in our schools? Will she agree to look into this and to work with her Home Office colleagues?

[Lucy Powell]

I thank my hon. Friend for that question, and for all the work she is doing in her community with Joe Burchell and others. There are, obviously, big questions for all our public services. This is something that every single one of my colleagues around the Cabinet table takes incredibly seriously. I will certainly pass on to my counterpart her suggestion for faith officers in the police.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Janet Daby and Lucy Powell

Monday 14th September 2026 Commons Chamber

[Lucy Powell]

I absolutely hear the hon. Lady. I know how closely related transport and its costs are with young people having access to the education and training that they need. Rest assured, this is a priority for the Government.

[Janet Daby (Lewisham East) (Lab)]

A constituent’s 11-year-old autistic daughter attempted suicide last year, and she continues to experience severe anxiety and autistic burnout. The family still have no clarity about her education provision for this new term. Will the Government ensure that schools are able to offer placements to children like my constituent’s daughter only when they have the staffing expertise, resource and specialist support necessary to meet that child’s identified needs?