An MP has condemned the recent rise in anti-Semitic attacks.

Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, says she plans to meet members of the Jewish community to discuss their concerns.

Her remarks come after the attack last week on Cockfosters and North Southgate Synagogue, in Old Firm Avenue, Southgate, when a brick was thrown through the window.

She said: “As soon as the Gaza crisis hit the headlines, I contacted the borough police commander for Barnet, Adrian Usher, to try to find out whether the pattern of previous years would be repeated with anti-Semitism rising at times when Israel is in the news. At that point the problem had yet to show itself clearly, but since then we have seen a significant rise in anti-Semitic incidents including an increase in anti-Semitic crime. This is completely unacceptable.”

Jewish security group the Community Security Trust recorded more than 200 anti-Semitic incidents in July, with a total of around 240 for the last six weeks.

Theresa added: “Over recent days I have spoken to a number of my constituents about their fears and concerns about the current situation, including the chair of Barnet Synagogue who told me of a heated meeting held at the shul to discuss this issue. I have also received a detailed update from the police on the action they are taking and their plans for keeping people safe in Barnet during the forthcoming high holy days.

“I stand in solidarity with my Jewish constituents and everyone who has been a victim of hate crime.”