The UK is proud to be home to over a quarter of a million Jews. Our Jewish community is an integral part of the rich fabric that comprises modern Britain.

In 2006, the UK celebrated the 350th anniversary of the re-establishment of the British Jewish community following Oliver Cromwell's decision to re-admit Jews to Britain after a long period of persecution.

In his speech to the thanksgiving service at the Bevis Marks Synagogue in London, the Prime Minister said:

"It is impossible to imagine the modern United Kingdom without the Jewish community. Yet for almost four centuries Jews were forbidden to worship, even in private, in this country. Since that was changed in 1656, arts, sciences, commerce, politics, the world of learning and thought, philanthropy and many more areas, all of these have been illuminated by the names of distinguished Jews who have made their mark, added to the store of knowledge, and helped to make our country a better place."

Key speeches by UK officials to the British Jewish community:

• Foreign Secretary hosts Chanukah party (22 December 2008)
• PM sends Chanukah greeting (21 December 2008)
• Foreign Secretary's speech to the Labour Friends of Israel (4 November 2008)
• Prime Minister sends Rosh Hashanah greetings (30 September 2008)
• Foreign Secretary's message for Jewish New Year (28 September 2008)
• Minister Jim Murphy MP's inaugural lecture at the European Institute for the Study of Contemporary anti-Semitism (14 July 2008)
• Prime Minister's speech at Finchley Synagogue on Israel's 60th anniversary (7 May 2008)
• Prime Minister's speech on 350th anniversary of the UK Jewish community (14 June 2006)