Calls for UK National Security Adviser to resign over antisemitic comments
The UK’s National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell is facing renewed pressure to resign amid allegations regarding antisemitic remarks made by his wife, Sarah Helm, and her public revelations about his work, reports BritPanorama.
Labour Against Antisemitism has formally appealed to Prime Minister Andy Burnham for Powell’s dismissal following Helm’s derogatory remarks about EU President Ursula von der Leyen’s support for Israel after the October 7 atrocities in 2023. In her comments, Helm referred to von der Leyen’s statements as “empty dangerous glib tropes” and questioned the lack of testimony from rape victims.
Helm stated last week: “God help us authors who support Palestine and Palestine Action. Sounds like Adam Boulton would have all our books swept off the shelves in a jiffy.” She also expressed discontent regarding Hamas being labelled a terrorist organization, claiming to have spent considerable time in Gaza.
In a letter to the Prime Minister, Alex Hearn of Labour Against Antisemitism commented, “Either Jonathan Powell lacks full clearance, vetting missed this, or saw it. Each is indefensible.”
Hearn further emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing antisemitism, stating, “You promised zero tolerance on antisemitism. Mr Powell’s position is untenable and his wife raises security concerns. He must resign or be sacked.”
A spokesperson for the Campaign Against Antisemitism remarked: “At a time of the worst antisemitism in living memory, how can British Jews be reassured when these sentiments are so close to the person charged with protecting us all?”
Shadow home affairs minister Alicia Kearns has also sought clarification from Prime Minister Burnham regarding the sustainability of Powell’s position. While police have classified Hamas as a terrorist organization, they indicated that no action is warranted concerning Helm’s statements, asserting that she “does not represent the Government in any capacity.”
Recent studies indicate a troubling rise in antisemitic abuse, with reports showing that three in five older Jewish pupils have experienced such incidents.
This situation unveils critical concerns about the intersection of security and political rhetoric, particularly in addressing matters of antisemitism in contemporary Britain.
