George Galloway ‘very clear on difference between anti-Zionism and antisemitism’
Firebrand left-wing veteran who is standing in Batley and Spen to split the Labour vote insist 'anyone who says anything antisemitic is not welcome'.
Lee Harpin is the Jewish News's political editor
George Galloway’s is “very clear there is a difference between anti-Zionism and antisemitism” his spokesperson has insisted.
Speaking to Jewish News following our report on strong pro-Palestinian sentiment in a key area of Batley and Spen ahead of next month’s by-election, the spokesperson also said there had been “no” incidents of antisemitism in Galloway’s campaign up until now.
Galloway’s aide said: “We have made clear in our daily briefings if anybody says anything antisemitic, if anybody holds antisemitic views they are not welcome.”
Asked for Galloway’s view on whether Labour had become a “Zionist Party” under Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership, the spokesperson said: “I have not spoken to George today, but when I see him I will get him to reply back to you.”
When told that some voters in the Batley area had yesterday suggested Galloway was himself now a Muslim ‘revert’, the spokesperson said:”That is a matter between George and God.
“He is a believer in God, but his faith is a matter between him and God.”
The spokesperson also suggested claims that Galloway’s campaign would ultimately lead to a Tory victory on July 1st were wrong.
“We are in it to win it,” said the aide. “It is Labour who cannot win. Speak to any local Kirklees Labour councillor and they will tell you the party’s canvassing returns are so poor they cannot win.”
Labour has yet to respond to a request for comment on the party’s campaign in the seat.
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