A Conservative peer, Lord Archie Hamilton, is facing backlash for suggesting Jewish people should fund a Holocaust memorial in London due to their perceived wealth. During a House of Lords debate, his remarks were met with criticism from fellow peers, who labeled the comments as antisemitic and unacceptable, highlighting ongoing issues of prejudice within parliament.
Conservative peer accused of using antisemitic tropes
Lord Archie Hamilton, who has a history in government under Margaret Thatcher and John Major, sparked controversy during a debate concerning a proposed Holocaust memorial in Victoria Tower Gardens.
His comments implied that the Jewish community should bear the financial responsibility for the memorial project.
Controversial Comments Draw Criticism
Hamilton stated that taxpayers’ money should not be spent on the memorial due to budget constraints, asserting that the Jewish community, described as having “an awful lot of money,” should support the initiative financially.
Former Labour MP Ian Austin challenged Hamilton, emphasizing that the memorial is intended for everyone, not just the Jewish community.
Response from Peers and Advocacy Groups
Austin condemned Hamilton’s remarks as “completely unacceptable,” remarking on the apparent prevalence of antisemitic tropes in his speech. He argued that such rhetoric highlights the ongoing antisemitism issue, underlining the need for a memorial dedicated to anti-Jewish racism.
Danny Stone, CEO of the Antisemitism Policy Trust, described Hamilton’s comments as “ill-judged, racist, and false,” calling for a more thorough challenge to such expressions in parliamentary discussions.
Background on the Controversy
The memorial’s proposed site was approved in 2021 after an extensive public inquiry, following the original proposal by David Cameron’s government. While many Jewish organizations support the project, dissenting voices, including crossbench peer Ruth Deech, have criticized the decision to utilize a small green space, advocating for fiscal responsibility in a project that could exceed £190 million in costs.
Hamilton and the Conservative Party have been approached for comments regarding the statements made during the debate.
Cliff Notes
- Lord Archie Hamilton suggested the Jewish community should fund a Holocaust memorial, sparking outrage.
- One of the reason why this is considered a trope is because it originates from Shylock.
- Fellow peers condemned his comments as antisemitic, stressing the memorial is for all.
- Advocacy groups are concerned about the normalisation of antisemitic rhetoric in parliament.
FAQs
What did Lord Hamilton say to provoke the backlash?
Lord Hamilton suggested that Jewish people should contribute financially to the Holocaust memorial due to their perceived wealth, igniting accusations of antisemitism.
Why is the Holocaust memorial being built?
The memorial aims to educate and commemorate the victims of the Holocaust, emphasizing the importance of remembering anti-Jewish racism.
What has been the response from other peers?
Other members of the House of Lords, including Ian Austin, have expressed strong disapproval of Hamilton’s comments, calling for accountability within the Conservative Party.