Labour MP Diane Abbott has ignited a fresh political storm following controversial comments about Jewish people, drawing sharp criticism from within her own party. The remarks, made during a recent interview, have led to swift condemnation from senior Labour figures, including Deputy Leader Angela Rayner.
Abbott's comments, which suggested Jewish people do not face racism in the same way as other minorities, were described as "deeply offensive" by Rayner. The Deputy Leader emphasised that such views have no place in the Labour Party, which has been working to rebuild trust with the Jewish community.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Labour, as the party seeks to move past previous allegations of antisemitism under former leader Jeremy Corbyn. Current leader Keir Starmer has made tackling antisemitism a priority, with this latest incident testing the party's commitment to that pledge.
Jewish community leaders have expressed disappointment at Abbott's remarks, calling for stronger action from Labour. The Board of Deputies of British Jews stated: "These comments are factually wrong and deeply hurtful. We expect the Labour Party to take appropriate disciplinary measures."
Political analysts suggest this incident could further complicate Abbott's position within Labour, where she has already been suspended from the parliamentary party since April 2023 over separate controversial remarks.
The House of Commons has seen growing calls for Abbott to apologise, with MPs from across the political spectrum condemning her comments. As pressure mounts, all eyes are on Labour's next steps in handling this latest controversy.
