It is the primary task of any Home Secretary, and indeed the Government as a whole, to keep the British people safe. That often requires difficult decisions that may split opinion in a pluralistic society. The case of Shamima Begum is one such example.
The former east London schoolgirl travelled to Islamic State territory in Syria in 2015 aged 15. Begum’s citizenship was revoked on national security grounds shortly after she was discovered in a Syrian refugee camp in 2019. Last year, she lost a challenge against the decision at the Special Immigration Appeals Commission and today was defeated once again, this time at the Court of Appeal.
This has been a time-consuming case which, if the judgment had been reversed, would have set a dangerous precedent. It was understandable that a controversial decision by the Home Secretary would be subject to judicial review. But the Government has clearly won. Allowing Begum to return would send a deeply worrisome message, that anyone considering joining a terror organisation can jet off and return home when their plans fall through.
Projecting hate
Not everyone who shouts the phrase knows they are referring to the River Jordan and the Mediterranean. But on a demonstration organised by the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign, plenty will understand the meaning of “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free”.
Let’s not equivocate. It is genocidal language and nakedly antisemitic. It is a call not for a ceasefire or a Palestinian state, but the eradication of Israel. Where the nine million Israeli citizens are meant to go under this scenario is left ominously unsaid.
On Wednesday, as chaos swept through the Commons with MPs fearful of their security, that chant was projected onto the Elizabeth Tower which contains Big Ben. It is simply astonishing that the Metropolitan Police should see it and not stop it. The seat of British democracy should not be used as a billboard for hatred.
The excuse given by Scotland Yard for its inaction — that this is a phrase frequently heard at pro-Palestinian marches — is no absolution. Any person who rejects violence must condemn this chant and the appalling message behind it.
Capital of music
It IS still cold and wet, but that makes it the perfect time to warm up for festival season with a few must-see gigs. And if you don’t know where to start, the Evening Standard has you covered.
From huge pop residencies to the next big thing, we bring you the top shows between now and June. Even better, they’re in London, which means no wellies and tents for those who prefer their own bed.
