Justice Secretary Alex Norris has sent his thoughts to Jewish communities observing Yom Kippur, while paying tribute to those affected by last year's terrorist attack at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester.
Norris, who serves as Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, said:
As the Jewish community marks Yom Kippur, my thoughts are with all those observing.
He added:
One year on from the attack at Manchester Synagogue, we remember those affected and stand firmly with them.
Antisemitism has no place in our society, and we stand with victims and survivors.
Norris has served as Justice Secretary since July and has responsibility for the justice system, victims policy and the wider work of the Ministry of Justice.
Remembering the Heaton Park attack
The attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue took place on 2 October 2025, during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Counter Terrorism Policing says Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby were killed, while three other men were seriously injured. The investigation into the attack has continued into 2026, with a further charge brought in August.
The Government subsequently described the attack as an act of antisemitic terrorism deliberately targeting Jewish worshippers on Yom Kippur.
Government support for those affected
In the immediate aftermath of the attack, the Government declared the incident a major incident and deployed the Independent Public Advocate to help victims and families access emotional and practical support and navigate subsequent investigations.
Greater Manchester authorities have also continued to support the synagogue, including funding repairs arising from the attack earlier this year.
Norris: antisemitism has no place in Britain
Norris's message comes as Jewish communities across the country observe Yom Kippur through prayer, fasting and reflection.
His intervention places particular emphasis on solidarity with those still carrying the impact of the Manchester attack and on the wider responsibility to confront antisemitism.
His message is that remembrance must be accompanied by a clear commitment to stand with Jewish communities, victims and survivors - and to challenge antisemitism wherever it appears.
