from Religion Media Centre
The Board of Deputies has suspended five Deputies and sent a letter of criticism to a further 31, after an investigation into a letter sent to the Financial Times in April which condemned Israel’s government for the war in Gaza. The 36 signatories said they could not “turn a blind eye or remain silent” at the “renewed loss of life and livelihoods” after Israel’s renewed offensive.
In a statement last night, the Board said an independent panel unanimously found that 36 Deputies had breached its code of conduct. The breaches were primarily around the public presentation and promotion of the letter, “which created the misleading impression that this was an official document of the Board as a whole”, and the subsequent press release which had an “exacerbating effect”.
The 31 who did nothing more to promote the letter, were sent a letter of criticism. Five more who contributed to a “misleading press release”, made public appearances, published disrespectful social media posts, or made inappropriate communications to the investigations panel, have been suspended for two years. In three cases, they can reduce their suspension if they apologise.
A report in the Jewish News says it’s understood that the five suspended include Harriett Goldenberg, who had been serving as vice chair of the Board’s International Division, and Philip Goldenberg, a lawyer and longstanding Liberal Democrat councillor. Both had given public media appearances.
Board of Deputies advice to people stranded in Israel
The Board of Deputies has set up a special website page with up-to-date official information, resources, and safety advice for British citizens stranded in Israel. It lists information on travel arrangements to help people leave, and emergency information on health, accommodation and diplomatic advice.