MALVERN councillors voted unanimously to adopt a motion on a uniform definition of anti-semitism, as proposed by the government.

The motion, put forward by leader of Malvern Hills District Council Sarah Rouse, asked councillors to adopt the non legally-binding working definition, which says: "Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews.

"Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”

Local authorities are required to adopt the definition as part of a government programme to combat anti-semitism at all levels of society.

A letter from Secretary of state for housing, communities and local government Robert Jenrick said: "My predecessor wrote to you in early 2017 following the Government’s adoption of the IHRA definition, encouraging you to formally adopt the definition as a clear message that antisemitic behaviour will not be tolerated. I am writing to you on this issue again to impress upon you the need to take urgent action, which is more important now than ever."

Figures from the Community Security Trust suggest 18 per cent of religiously motivated hatred is targeted at Jewish people – up from 12 per cent in 2018.

Chair of the council Dean Clarke used his discretion and went straight to a vote on the matter rather than a debate.

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of the motion.