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School Cancels MP Visit Amid Pro-Palestinian Protests

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bristol Brunel Academy canceled a visit by Labour MP Damien Egan due to planned pro-Palestinian protests.
Damien Egan, the vice-chair of Labour Friends of Israel, would discuss democracy with students.
Saima Akhtar, the school's diversity leader, praised Hamas as "heroes" after the October 7 attacks that killed about 1,200.
Sir Keir Starmer condemned the cancellation.
The Cabot Learning Federation oversees the school and is investigating Akhtar's comments.

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Story summary

Bristol Brunel Academy canceled a visit by Labour MP Damien Egan due to planned pro-Palestinian protests.
Damien Egan, the vice-chair of Labour Friends of Israel, would discuss democracy with students.
Saima Akhtar, the school's diversity leader, praised Hamas as "heroes" after the October 7 attacks that killed about 1,200.
Sir Keir Starmer condemned the cancellation.
The Cabot Learning Federation oversees the school and is investigating Akhtar's comments.