Jewish Labour MP’s Bristol school visit postponement ‘very concerning’, says PM
Damien Egan’s visit was rearranged following concerns about planned protests
The postponement of Jewish Labour MP Damien Egan’s visit to a Bristol school has been described as "very concerning" by the Prime Minister.
Mr Egan's visit to Bristol Brunel Academy, located in his Bristol North East constituency, was rearranged following reported intervention from pro-Palestinian activists.
Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir Starmer said MPs should be able to visit schools and other places in their constituencies "without fear of antisemitism."
Sir Keir referred to the case as “very serious, very concerning” and pledged additional funding for security across the country.
"We will be holding those to account who have prevented this visit to this school," he said.
Visit postponed
Mr Egan was originally scheduled to visit Bristol Brunel Academy in September to talk to students about democracy and the role of an MP.
The day before his visit, the school was informed about plans for a public protest outside its gates, coinciding with the end of the school day.
A spokesperson for Bristol Brunel Academy explained:
“On the evening before Mr Egan’s scheduled visit, we were made aware of plans for a public protest outside the school.
“As this protest was scheduled to coincide with the end of the school day, we opted to postpone Mr Egan’s visit to ensure everyone would continue to feel safe when entering and exiting school and to prevent any disruption to our students’ learning.
“We have remained in contact with Mr Egan throughout and he agreed a new date for the visit some time ago. We have also been in contact with the police and followed their advice.”
Reaction to the postponement
Communities Secretary Steve Reed called the postponement “an absolute outrage” during the Jewish Labour Movement conference on Sunday, bringing the incident to public attention.
Meanwhile, the Bristol branch of the National Education Union welcomed the decision, saying it was "a win for safeguarding, solidarity and for the power of the NEU trade union staff group, parents and campaigners standing together."
Although Mr Egan has yet to comment publicly, plans for his rearranged visit remain in place.