October 10, 2005
The UK's chief rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks has said that an atmosphere of prejudice against Jews exists in the country. In an interview with the 'Daily Mail' newspaper, Sir Jonathan also said speeches by public figures often contained "undertones" of anti-Semitism, adding: "There have been times – the first in my memory – when it has been uncomfortable to be a Jew in Britain." In a message to mark the Jewish New Year, Sacks declared that Britain's basic values of tradition and tolerance had come under attack since the terrorist attacks in New York and London.
His comments also marked the 350th anniversary of the arrival of the modern Jewish community in Britain. "We are a more active, educated, committed community", Sir Jonathan said, "and in this there is also a message for other groups. You do not have to lose your identity to be part of Britain. There can be integration without assimilation. For this to happen, Britain must hold fast to its identity. Only a self-confident society can celebrate difference." These comments echoed recent criticisms of multiculturalism by race relations chief Trevor Phillips, who suggested ethnic minorities should do more to fit in with British society.
