Amber Rudd sets aside millions for Jewish schools, colleges and synagogues to combat rise of extremists since Jo Cox murder

HOME SECRETARY Amber Rudd last night pledged to spend millions guarding Jewish schools, colleges and synagogues – as she warned of a heightened threat from extremists.

The Tory rising star said the Government would pay for “guarding” at the sites to counter an alarming increase in anti-semitic attacks.

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The vow came as PM Theresa May prepared to launch a new national anti-hate crime campaign in the Commons tomorrow with sporting legends such as former super middleweight champion Carl Froch and community leaders.

Speaking at a UK-Israel conference in Parliament, Ms Rudd said: “We can only effectively challenge hatred and division by working together – not just internationally but at home – Government, police, local people and organisations.

“And sadly the Jewish community knows all too well what it’s like to live with the threat from terrorism and hate crime.

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Neo-Nazi Thomas Mair was handed a whole life sentence at the Old Bailey last week for the murder of the 41-year-old in June.

“We are providing £13.4 million for guarding at all Jewish state, free and independent schools, colleges and nurseries and at synagogues and to support the continuing efforts of the police to provide security and reassurance to the Jewish community.”

She said there were 924 reports of anti-semitic incidents, including 86 violent assaults.

And she said far right and extreme groups had become “increasingly sophisticated” in the use of social media to promote their campaigns.

Ms Rudd added: "As Home Secretary, I am absolutely determined that we challenge extremism in all its forms and the terrible damage it can cause to individuals, families and communities.

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“Earlier this year we saw the shocking and senseless murder of my parliamentary colleague Jo Cox in her own constituency by the far-right extremist Thomas Mair. This demonstrated the evil of far-right extremism and acts of terrorism.

Reflecting on the increase in antisemitic incidents since the EU referendum, she said: "an attack of that kind if one attack too many".

He stabbed and shot the MP for Batley and Spen the week before the EU referendum and reportedly shouted "This is for Britain" as he killed her.