The UK's leading business organisations have signed a joint
letter pledging to take a stand against antisemitism, committing
to concrete action to support Jewish employees and foster
inclusive workplaces.
The initiative, co-ordinated by the British Chambers of Commerce
(BCC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), brings
together a wide coalition of major industry bodies representing
millions of employees across the UK.
The letter follows roundtables hosted
by Number 10 (Tuesday 5 May) and the Department for Business and
Trade (Wednesday 13 May). Senior business leaders met with
ministers and Jewish community representativesto discuss the rise
of antisemitism and the need for a whole of society approach to
tackle it.
In the letter, signatories make clear
that antisemitism is racism and has no place in modern Britain,
warning that the experiences faced by Jewish communities have
‘reached a level that requires specific
attention'.
Their organisations have committed to
a series of actions, including:
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Speaking out publicly
against antisemitism
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Improving awareness through
education and training
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Offering tailored support to
Jewish colleagues
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Taking a zero-tolerance
approach to incidents in the
workplace
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The coalition says businesses have a
shared responsibility to act, recognising their influence in
shaping bothworkplace culture and wider
society.
Shevaun Haviland, Director
General of the BCC, said:
“No-one should feel unsafe in the
workplace. Businesses have a fundamental role to play in
delivering that. The rise in antisemitism is deeply concerning
and demands a clear, collective
response.
“This letter is the starting point.
All businesses have a responsibility to turn words into action –
ensuring that Jewish employees feel safe and
protected.
"Companies across the UK are already
stepping up to show leadership and set expectations. We must be
unequivocal that antisemitism has no place in our society. By
acting together, business can be a powerful force for
good.”
Rain Newton-Smith, Chief
Executive of the CBI, said:
“Antisemitism is abhorrent and has no
place in business or wider society. Employers have a
responsibility not only to condemn it, but to help prevent it
wherever it appears.
“This joint letter sets out clear
commitments to educate, support and act, so that Jewish
colleagues feel safe, respected and valued at
work.
“The breadth of organisations backing
this statement reflects the strength of feeling across the
business community. We will continue working with government and
partners to turn these commitments into meaningful
action.
“Inclusive workplaces are vital for
individuals, for businesses and for the success of our
economy.”
, Secretary of State for Business
and Trade, said:
“We hear far too often from the Jewish
community that antisemitism is all too normal in our society,
including in our workplaces.
“That's why I've met business groups
and Jewish community organisations to build on last week's
critical summit, and I'm pleased to see workplaces begin to
discuss the action they can take to combat this
hatred.
“Nobody should go to their place of
work fearful of suffering antisemitic abuse and businesses have a
crucial role to play in facing this challenge head
on.”
ENDS
A copy of the open letter with list of signatories can be
found here.
