Board of Deputies president Marie van der Zyl told delegates at today's Board meeting that she could not discuss the case of Roslyn Pine, who has been suspended for six years as a deputy.

Mrs Pine - who made comments described as Islamophobic and admitted holding anti-Arab views - represented Finchley United Synagogue. Her suspension followed a JC investigation and a series of complaints.

Mrs Van der Zyl prefaced her presidential statement by telling deputies: "You will have all read, and received notification, that Roslyn Pine has been suspended.

"I want to say that we will not be discussing the merits of the case because there is an appeal process. But just to make it clear - unacceptable behaviour and conduct is not going to be tolerated at the Board of Deputies. That is a very clear message that has been sent."

One deputy, Jonathan Goldblum (Machzike Adath), did subsequently attempt to ask a question about "the process over the way this person was expelled". 

He was interrupted by Mrs Van der Zyl, who reiterated that the matter could not be discussed because of the appeal process.

 "It's a question of confidence in the Board," Mr Goldblum said as he moved away from the microphone.