Board of Deputies president Jonathan Arkush has congratulated Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon for taking “tangible steps” against antisemitism.

Following a meeting in Edinburgh at which Israel and relations with the SNP were also discussed, Mr Arkush said Ms Sturgeon had "extended the hand of friendship to the Scottish Jewish community and made tangible steps to stand firm against antisemitism, including bigotry against Israel”.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Scotland believes in equality for all people, whoever they are, wherever they are from and whatever they believe. The Scottish Government recognises and greatly values the substantial and enduring influence of the Jewish faith on Scotland’s people and culture. I wish the Jewish communities in Scotland and across the world a peaceful and happy Chanukah.”

Mr Arkush was accompanied by Micheline Brannan, chair of the Scottish Council of Jewish Communities.