Theresa Villiers: Chanukah highlights the best of human nature

Today, as we face challenges from extremist groups to our values of freedom, individual liberty, and respect for diversity and different faiths, the Chanukah message of light and hope is one that should resonate strongly with all of us.

We have seen some truly horrific acts of terrorism over the past year. A few hate-filled individuals have attacked our way of life, striking at the heart of our society’s values.

In these acts we saw the worst of human nature. But in response, we also saw the best. From the brave men and women of our emergency services who rushed to the scenes, to the taxi drivers who refused to charge fares when taking those caught up in the Manchester bomb back to their homes.

They all stood up to evil and displayed the very best of Britain. This is the kind of hope and determination that is in tune with the message of Chanukah.

We must call out intolerance wherever we find it. We must never look the other way.

The government recognises how vital it is to combat hate crime effectively. It is working through its July 2016 Action Plan to increase reporting, improve support for victims, and crack down on those who perpetrate this wholly unacceptable behaviour.

I am proud to represent a vibrant, multi-ethnic constituency as the Member of Parliament for Chipping Barnet. In the face of extremism and intolerance we should come together and redouble our efforts to promote good will and understanding between people of different backgrounds.

The festival of Chanukah gives us all the opportunity to focus on its message of hope and use it as part of our efforts to prevent a small number of hate-fuelled voices drowning out our values of mutual respect for different faiths and cultural traditions.

The Jewish community do this day in and day out and I pay tribute to the hugely positive contribution they make throughout our society.