News

Board of Deputies President Jonathan Arkush has reacted to the Government’s launch of a consultation on organ donations.

He said: “Saving life is one of the most important values in Judaism. On behalf of the UK Jewish community we support means to increase organ donation and relieve suffering.

“However, today’s Government consultation on presumed consent risks counterproductive and unintended consequences.”

He added: “We urge our community and the public at large to respond to this consultation to urge the Government: Help us to opt in. Do not force us to opt out.”

The consultation can be foundhere.

The Board of Deputies is currently seeking an exceptional candidate for the role of International Relations Officer.

This is an opportunity to be part of the dynamic public affairs team of the national representative body of the UK Jewish community. The Board of Deputies is the first port of call for the government, media, diplomats and others seeking to understand the positions and concerns of our community.

For more details on the job description, person specification and how to apply, please click here.

Vice President Marie van der Zyl and Chief Executive Gillian Merron attended the Conservative Friends of Israel annual business lunch.

INTERNATIONAL

The Board of Deputies issued a joint statement along with the JLC and CST condemning antisemitic chants at a demonstration outside the US Embassy in London. Read the statement here and the Jewish News story here.

Grassroots and Advocacy Consultant Steven Jaffe attended a conference on digital diplomacy hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jerusalem.

Steven Jaffe met Isaac Herzog MK to discuss plans for celebrating the centenary of the birth of his father, Chaim Herzog, sixth President of Israel. Steven also met representatives from the World Zionist organisation, the Irish embassy in Israel, and former ambassador to the UK, Daniel Taub.

SOCIAL ACTION

Interfaith and Social Action Officer Anthony Silkoff and Amanda Bowman, co-Chair of BoDSA, met members of the Eco-Synagogue steering committee to discuss plans for their launch to the community. For free tickets to the launch with His Grace Archbishop Rowan Williams, click here.

INTERFAITH

Anthony Silkoff, Vice-President Sheila Gewolb and Treasurer Stuart MacDonald attended the interfaith Chanukah celebration at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue, St John’s Wood.

Public Affairs Director Phil Rosenberg met with Muswell Hill Synagogue’s Rabbi David Mason to discuss local and national interfaith initiatives.

CHANUKAH

Marie van der Zyl, Gillian Merron and Phil Rosenberg attended Chanukah in the Square, organised by the Mayor of London, the Jewish Leadership Council, the London Jewish Forum and Chabad UK.

Gillian Merron and Parliamentary Officer Joel Salmon attended the Jewish Labour Movement Chanukah reception.

Phil Rosenberg attended a Chanukah Reception in Stamford Hill with MP David Lammy, local councillors and leading members of the local Charedi community, hosted by Director of Chaverim Youth Organisation, Shmuel Yosef Davidsohn.

Marie van der Zyl and Stuart MacDonald attended the Clifford Chance Chanukah reception held at Tate Britain.

Senior Vice President Richard Verber attended the Keshet Chanukah reception.

EDUCATION

Education Development Manager Sara Perlmutter attended a Religious Education All Party Parliamentary Group event at Parliament.