To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have evidence of rising tensions between communities in Britain since early December 2008; if so, whether such tensions have led to offences against the person or damage to property; and whether they are consulting local religious and community groups so as to prevent breaches of the peace.

The tension monitoring returns, the process used by government to monitor tension levels in local areas, has shown evidence in some areas of rising tensions affecting some communities. The tension monitoring returns show there has been a significant rise in anti-Semitic attacks in Britain since December 2008; this is confirmed by Community Security Trust figures. The incidents reported include both offences against the person and damage to property. Over the last month the Government have made it a priority to meet faith communities and provide reassurance that we are taking the action necessary to help minimise tensions, tackle all forms of hate crime and prevent breaches of the peace.