Representatives of Jewish students and community organisations met the new Universities Minister Jo Johnson this week to discuss antisemitism, religious freedom and other issues on campus.

A delegation led by Board of Deputies vice-president Amanda Bowman included members of the Union of Jewish Students, the Jewish Leadership Council, the Community Security Trust and University Chaplaincy. 

Mr Johnson said he had “listened to the concerns and challenges Jewish students face and I am clear that there is no place within higher education for any form of hatred or discrimination — including antisemitism. That is why the government is working with the Office for Students and Universities UK to take action to ensure everyone can thrive at university.” 

In a statement after the meeting, the Jewish delegation said: “The minister’s previous work in the role on the issues of antisemitism and freedom of speech on campus reassures us that under this government, Jewish life on campus will thrive.”

Mr Johnson previously served in the role from 2015 to 2018.