Suffolk MP warns Jewish people ‘living lesser lives’ amid antisemitism fears
It follows the recent attacks to Jewish people in London
A Suffolk MP has warned that some Jewish people are “living lesser lives” due to fear and intimidation, as concerns about antisemitism continue to grow.
Peter Prinsley spoke out following a stabbing in north London, which police are treating as a terrorist incident.
Two Jewish men were injured in the attack in Golders Green, prompting renewed calls for action to tackle hate crime and protect communities.
Dr Prinsley, who is Jewish, said he felt a responsibility to speak out, adding that the issue was not limited to high-profile incidents.
“Jewish people in the country are living lesser lives as a result of this intimidation,” he said.
He described how fear can manifest in everyday situations, with some people choosing not to openly express their faith.
“You see schoolgirls who won’t wear a Star of David, covering it up,” he said.
“That’s the sort of low-level, fearful behaviour that people are living with.”
Dr Prinsley said there was broad political agreement that more needed to be done to address antisemitism, but called for further measures to reduce intimidation.
“There’s no freedom to intimidate or to scare people,” he said.
Among the ideas he highlighted was the possibility of tighter controls around large-scale protests, particularly where policing demands are high.
He also referenced public concerns about the cost of policing demonstrations, suggesting it was an area that could be explored further.
The comments come amid heightened concern about antisemitism in the UK, with community leaders and politicians warning of both serious incidents and more subtle forms of discrimination.
Dr Prinsley added that while historic events shape understanding of antisemitism, the focus must remain on ensuring people feel safe today.
Police investigations into the London stabbing are ongoing.