Central Hosts Successful Michael Howard Event

On Sunday , 25 February 2024 Central Synagogue had the pleasure in hosting former leader of the Conservative Party and Home Secretary Lord Michael Howard of Lympne at their latest “Talks of Interest”. He was interviewed by, and in discussion with, Council member Jonathan Metliss.

To an audience of more than 50 members and guests ,in a most informative exchange , he spoke at length about his family history and Jewish roots in South Wales (his grandmother was murdered at Auschwitz), his distinguished political career and ministerial posts under prime ministers Margaret Thatcher and John Major and leadership of the Conservative Party.

The discussion went on to cover current topical issues including anti-semitism , Israel and the war in Gaza , the respective roles of the Metropolitan Police and the Mayor of London, and the election prospects of the Conservative Party.

The discussion stimulated great interest and provoked a variety of questions and comments from the floor.

A formal vote of thanks was given by synagogue chairman Mervyn Druian who presented Lord Howard with some books on the history of Central Synagogue, one written by the chairman Mervyn Druian and vice chairman Leonard Fertleman.

Mervyn Druian went on to say “we were honoured by the presence of Lord Howard and were captivated by stories of his career and his comments on the current political situation, including anti semitism and the war in Gaza. This was a special event for Central Synagogue and thank you to Lord Howard for his clear and dignified words, impressing everyone present“.

Central Synagogue has embarked on an active programme of cultural events of Jewish content in its Talks of Interest and Kiddush Talks series.