The branch manager of an estate agency in Hertfordshire has been suspended after she openly celebrated the death of Lord Jacob Rothschild, the financier and member of the Rothschild banking family, who died at the age of 87 on Monday.
Following his death, Amanda Hardy, who has worked for Barkers estate agents in Borehamwood for almost 20 years, posted a message on social media in which she said: “The world is a better place with this Zionist dead. Just got to hope all the others follow.”
The owner of Barkers, Chris Newell, has moved swiftly to suspend Hardy pending an investigation which could lead in disciplinary action.
The Jewish News, who saw the post, said she initially apologised for any offence caused, but said: “People need to start questioning.”
Responding to how the Jewish community could feel about her comments, she told them: “I have lots of Jewish friends, I have a rabbi that I know, lots of beautiful Jewish friends and to be honest with you, they all love me and respect me and know me.”
Hardy denied her comments were antisemitic or opposed to the Jewish religion.
Newell told the press that he was “extremely dismayed” by the message, and was keen to stress that the views expressed in that post “do not represent those of the business or any member of staff in the business – and do not represent my views either”.
‘I find the post offensive, I think everybody in the business finds it offensive,” he continued. “Amanda Hardy has been suspended pending an investigation and as a result of that disciplinary action may follow.”
He added: “The business has been operating in this area for 30 years serving communities of all faiths. I’m sympathetic to those who find this post offensive and I share this view. I am extremely dismayed by it.”
Following the death of Lord Rothschild, his family said in a statement: “Our father Jacob was a towering presence in many people’s lives, a superbly accomplished financier, a champion of the arts and culture, a devoted public servant, a passionate supporter of charitable causes in Israel and Jewish culture, a keen environmentalist and much-loved friend, father and grandfather.
“He will be buried in accordance with Jewish custom in a small family ceremony and there will be a memorial at a later date to celebrate his life.”
Lord Rothschild’s family has an estimated fortune of £825m, according to the Sunday Times Rich List. They reportedly gave away a reported £66m to Jewish causes, education and art.
