A planned visit by Damien Egan, a Jewish Labour MP and vice-chair of Labour Friends of Israel, to a local academy in Bristol was cancelled after opposition from a pro-Palestine group. The cancellation has sparked concerns over anti-Israel sentiment and the silencing of diverse political voices in educational settings.
Egan, the Labour MP for Bristol North East, had been scheduled to speak to students at Bristol Brunel Academy in September 2025. However, the visit was called off just hours before it was due to take place. The school cited concerns over a planned protest outside the premises as the reason for the postponement.
According to sources, the decision was made after the National Education Union (NEU) staff group, parents, and local constituents raised concerns about Egan’s pro-Israel stance. The Bristol Palestine Solidarity Campaign celebrated the cancellation, stating that “politicians who openly support Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza are not welcome in our schools.”
The incident has sparked a wider debate about the balance between free speech and the concerns of those who oppose Egan’s political views. Communities Secretary Steve Reed condemned the move, describing it as an “absolute outrage” and promising that the school would be “held to account.”
Egan, who has an Israeli husband, has faced increased scrutiny from anti-Israel activists since his election in 2024. The investigative news outlet Bristol Cable reported that there were plans for people to wear keffiyehs (traditional Palestinian scarves) on the day of the scheduled visit, suggesting an organised effort to disrupt the event.
In a statement, Bristol Brunel Academy said the visit was postponed to “ensure everyone would continue to feel safe when entering and exiting school and to prevent any disruption to our students’ learning.” The school maintained that it has remained in contact with Egan and an alternative date for his visit has been arranged.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between fostering open dialogue and addressing concerns over political views that some may find contentious. As the debate continues, educators and policymakers will need to navigate these complex issues with care, ensuring that schools remain inclusive and respectful environments for all.