A Labour MP was prevented from visiting a school in his own constituency after a campaign by activists who argued his presence could 'inflame' teachers and staff.
Campaign by Activists Leads to Cancellation
Damien Egan, the MP for Bristol North East, had a planned visit to Bristol Brunel Academy in September cancelled. The decision followed pressure from far-left protesters associated with the local branch of the National Education Union (NEU) and the Bristol Palestine Solidarity Campaign group.
The activists, claiming to represent teachers, parents, and residents, raised what they termed 'safeguarding concerns'. They highlighted Mr Egan's role as Vice Chair of the Labour Friends of Israel group. In social media posts, they celebrated the cancellation as a victory for 'safeguarding, solidarity, and for the power of the NEU trade union staff group, parents, and campaigners standing together'.
Planned Protests and Political Outcry
One NEU representative revealed that teachers had planned to wear keffiyehs on the day of the visit and had prepared educational work for students in advance of his arrival. The activists stated the move sent a 'clear message' that politicians supporting Israel's actions in Gaza were 'not welcome in our schools'.
The incident was brought to national attention when Communities Secretary Steve Reed disclosed it on Sunday. He told the Jewish News that a Jewish colleague had been 'refused permission to visit a school in his own constituency, in case his presence inflames the teachers.'
'That is an absolute outrage,' Mr Reed stated. He vowed that those responsible would be 'called in' and 'held to account', adding, 'you cannot have people with those kinds of attitudes teaching our children.'
Background and Security Concerns
Mr Egan, who was born in Cork and grew up in the Kingswood area, has faced repeated threats from anti-Israel activists since becoming an MP in 2024. He has been offered enhanced security due to his marriage to Israeli Yossi Felberbaum, who served in the military.
The school and its multi-academy trust have been contacted for comment regarding the decision to cancel the MP's visit. The case raises significant questions about political access to educational institutions and the safeguarding of elected representatives.
