Education Secretary urges universities to combat antisemitism amid controversy over Bob Vylan concert.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said universities can act against harassment and intimidation, ahead of a Bob Vylan concert at Manchester Academy, a venue on the University of Manchester campus. She expressed concern over the band member’s June Glastonbury chant calling for the death of the IDF, which was live-streamed by the BBC and later labeled “antisemitic” and “deeply disturbing” by BBC director-general Tim Davie. The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester and Region called for the show’s cancellation, citing a recent synagogue attack and warning of the line between political criticism and hate speech. Phillipson urged universities to prioritize training for staff, especially security, on combating antisemitism, though she did not confirm if it would be mandatory.