Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis has praised the "fortitude and resilience" of Prime Minister Theresa May as criticism over her Brexit deal reaches fever pitch.

In a speech delivered at a packed Downing Street Chanukah reception, the Chief Rabbi said the PM was respected "across the political spectrum" and said the Jewish community held her "In the highest esteem."

He compared her qualities to the Maccabees during the current Chanukah celebrations.

The Chief Rabbi referred to her appearance at a reception last week at Number 10 following a conference on antisemitism and misogyny, despite the fact she had just endured a gruelling assault in the House of Commons over Brexit for hours.  

He said: "Every time the Prime Minister speaks about the Jewish community, or about antisemitism, or about the state of Israel we know it comes from the heart.

“The Talmud tells us that words that come from the heart enter into the heart. We feel how genuine and how sincere the words, her passion for the Jewish community and for the state of Israel always are.

“At this time of Chanukah we recall the Maccabees. They are the ultimate example of fortitude, resilience and stoicism.”

He then suggested that it was possible to compare the Prime Minister as “a modern day person of that mould.”

He continued: "This last week Theresa May was here in Downing Street having been on her feet for more than three hours after yet another debate on Brexit.

"Yet she made a point of coming here for reception she was giving for the Sara Conference.

"Despite her heavy schedule she insisted she would be here and deliver a wonderful message."

He then added: "Theresa May - what fortitude, what resilience. Respected by people across the political spectrum. We do indeed hold her in the highest esteem."

Mrs May was unable to attend Monday's Chanukah reception as the Commons debate over Brexit continued late into the night.

The Chief Rabbi also paid tribute the "kinder from the Kindertransport" including "the dozens here tonight."

One day after an 80th anniversary celebration at Liverpool Street station, he pointed to the symbolism of how "representatives of the Jewish community" were gathered in Downing Street.

Speaking in place of the Prime Minister, Communities Secretary James Brokenshire praised the Jewish community, saying they had "once again made an outstanding contribution to British life."

He also reflected on the fact this year's Chanukah events were "tinged with sadness" as a result of the Pittsburgh synagogue attack.